Maldives and Kiribati have jointly organized a roundtable discussion regarding sustainable sourcing in trade of fish products.

The discussion on Tuesday, titled "Sustainable Sourcing in the Trade of Fish Products: Commonwealth SIDS leading the way”, was co-hosted by the Commonwealth Blue Charter.

The discussion explored sustainable sourcing practices in the trade of fish products, with a specific focus on the role of Commonwealth Small Island Developing States (SIDS).

Speaking at the discussion, Secretary-General of the Commonwealth, Patricia Scotland emphasized the significance of the event as a platform for knowledge exchange with a clear objective of addressing the challenges of achieving sustainable goals and advancing cooperation among key stakeholders, whilst simultaneously championing responsible and environmentally conscious trade in the fishery sector.

The discussion was moderated by the Maldives High Commissioner Dr. Farah Faizal who was joined in conversation by the Kiribati Tourism Minister Bootii Nauan, Maldivian Deputy Economic Minister Riyaz Mansoor, Commonwealth’s Head of Science and Standards Marine Stewardship Council Dr. Rohan Currey, and the Commonwealth Adviser on Agriculture and Fisheries Trade Policy Dr. Benjamin Kwasi Addom.

They addressed various topics, including the establishment of a market for sustainable tuna, the challenges surrounding sustainable certification and recognition of fisheries in SIDS, and bridging the digital divide to promote sustainable sourcing of fisheries products.