NGERULMUD, Palau — A proposal to allow limited exportation of reef fish for personal consumption is reigniting debate among lawmakers, scientists, government agencies, and the public, as concerns over cultural traditions clash with warnings of declining fish populations.
Supporters of the measure argue that sending fish abroad allows Palauans living overseas to maintain a vital cultural connection. Lawmakers backing the bill say the 2020 ban on exporting non-cultured marine products has impacted those who rely on fishing for their livelihood and disrupted a long-standing tradition of sharing Palau’s marine resources with family and friends abroad.
The bill seeks to permit individuals to export up to 50 pounds of reef fish for personal consumption while granting the Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Environment (MAFE) the authority to restrict certain species.
However, scientific reports indicate that Palau’s reef fish populations are in decline. The latest study from the Palau International Coral Reef Center (PICRC) found that commercially important reef fish biomass had decreased across 94 surveyed sites in 2023 compared to 2021. PICRC researchers, who have been conducting biennial studies since 2017, warn that few species replenish at a sustainable rate.
“Five years is not enough time to draw a conclusive finding to support a decision one way or another,” said Ikelau Otto, PICRC’s chief researcher. However, she noted that of the 46 tracked species, 16 are depleted, 24 are declining, and only six remain at sustainable levels.
Public comments at a recent hearing echoed scientific concerns.
“Be very careful. Based on observation and what local fishermen say, there are few fish,” said Beouch, a member of the public.
Enforcement challenges have also been raised as a major issue in the discussion. Ngirameketii Elbuchel Sadang, director of Palau Conservation Society, warned that legal loopholes could undermine any new amendments to the law. Minister Steven Victor of MAFE acknowledged that enforcement of the current ban is already difficult.
“Unless the law mandates all baggage to be X-rayed, we can’t do anything at this time,” Victor said, adding that until enforcement issues are addressed, “we should not open exportation of reef fish.”
Since its passage in 2020, RPPL 10-54, which prohibits reef fish exports, has remained a politically sensitive issue. The law was enacted in response to scientific warnings about depletion and was widely supported by residents in Palau. However, Palauans living abroad have frequently raised concerns about the restriction, particularly during political campaigns.
While the discussion continues, the decision on whether to reopen limited exports of reef fish remains unresolved, balancing cultural practices with the urgent need for conservation. (By: L.N. Reklai)