JAYAPURA – The Papua Provincial Government continues to strengthen the development of the fisheries sector by building a distribution chain for fishery products in Papua's coastal areas.

The program has begun with the construction of supporting fisheries facilities in Sarmi as part of efforts to improve fishermen's welfare and drive economic growth among coastal communities.

Head of the Papua Province Maritime Affairs and Fisheries Office, Iman Djuniawal, said strengthening the distribution chain is a strategic step by the government to maintain the quality of fishermen's catches while expanding market access for Papua's fishery products.

"Development has now begun in Sarmi Regency and will continue in several other coastal areas in Papua," Iman said.

According to him, the government is also encouraging investor involvement in the construction of cold storage facilities within the development area of the Red and White Fishermen's Village.

He explained that the prepared cold storage facility has a capacity of around 30 tons and is expected to optimally accommodate fishermen's catches in Sarmi Regency.

The Red and White Fishermen's Village development program is currently being prioritized in Sarmi Regency and is planned to be expanded to several other coastal areas in Papua, including Waropen and Supiori.

The Papua Provincial Government hopes that strengthening the distribution chain will increase fishermen's productivity, enhance the competitiveness of Papua's fisheries sector, and open opportunities for sustainable exports of fishery products. ***