A team from the University of the Sunshine Coast (UniSC) Seaweed Research Group in Australia, led by Professor Nicholas Paul, recently met with Secretary Riibeta Abeta and senior officials from the Coastal Fisheries Division of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resource Development (MFMRD) in Kiribati. The meeting was a significant step towards fostering sustainable seaweed farming, processing, and marketing opportunities that could benefit both local and international markets.

The visit by the UniSC Seaweed Research Group builds on previous research initiatives aimed at exploring the potential of seaweed as a sustainable resource. The discussion focused on identifying and developing viable opportunities for seaweed farming, processing (including value-adding), and marketing within Kiribati’s supply chain and beyond. With global demand for seaweed products on the rise, this collaboration seeks to position Kiribati as a potential hub for sustainable seaweed production.

The meeting also highlighted the importance of sustainable practices in seaweed farming and processing, ensuring that these ventures do not harm the marine environment but instead support the economic and environmental goals of Kiribati. The emphasis on sustainability is crucial, given the country’s unique ecological challenges and the need to balance economic development with environmental preservation.

This collaborative effort is made possible through the support of UniSC Australia, the International Development Research Centre (IDRC) Canada, and the Government of Kiribati. Their combined efforts aim to drive innovation in seaweed production and create economic opportunities for local communities while contributing to the global supply chain.

As Kiribati explores these new avenues for economic growth, the partnership between the UniSC Seaweed Research Group and the MFMRD signifies a promising step forward in leveraging seaweed's potential as a sustainable resource. The continued collaboration and knowledge-sharing among these institutions hold great promise for developing a thriving and sustainable seaweed industry in Kiribati.