Pacific International Inc. has announced plans to develop the largest private-sector fisheries support operation in the Pacific region.
Jerry Kramer, the CEO of the Majuro, Marshall Islands-based development company, told the Marianas Business Journal the company will be expanding its facility to specialize in support services for the tuna-fishing industry.
“The aim is to develop a one-stop fisheries support facility,” Kramer said. “The commercial tuna fishery is the big industry in this region, and the Marshall Islands needs to do more to attract and maintain fishing business.”
Pacific International had its proposal approved by the islands’ Environmental Protection Authority to expand its footprint by reclaiming six acres of new land near its existing facility in Majuro. Last year, the company finished the first phase of its development plan, which included a net repair yard for purse-seniers. The next phase will see the firm add fuel and freezer storage, as well as a longer dock to accommodate multiple vessels simultaneously.
Kramer said more shore-based freezer capacity will expand tuna exports by container ship, reducing the use of carrier vessels that are currently the main means of tuna transshipment in Majuro.
“Many local companies and the government will benefit from spin-off activities,” Kramer said. “Everything happens with economic development.”
Pacific International also recently received the contract to build the new headquarters for the Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA). Kramer signed the USD 2.8 million (EUR 2.4 million) contract on 31 May at a signing ceremony attended by PNA CEO Ludwig Kumoru and PNA Commercial Manager Maurice Brownjohn, according to The Marshall Islands Journal.
Photo courtesy of The Marshall Islands Journal
