By: Eoghan Olkeriil Ngirudelsang
KOROR, Palau — The Palau Senate is once again considering a proposal to lift the ban on reef fish exports, introducing a bill that would allow limited overseas shipments of certain species for personal use.
Senate Bill 12-14, introduced during a recent session, seeks to permit Palauan citizens to export up to 50 pounds of select reef fish species. The bill explicitly prohibits the sale of exported fish and restricts shipments to personal consumption.
A similar proposal was introduced in the previous Olbiil Era Kelulau but failed to advance. Sen. Kazuki Sungino, the bill’s main sponsor, said the new measure responds to renewed requests from the public, including Palauans living abroad who wish to have access to traditional seafood.
If passed, the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Environment would regulate which reef fish species can be exported and during what periods. The bill also proposes a $1-per-pound export fee, with proceeds directed toward supporting Palau’s aquaculture initiatives.
The bill is sponsored by Sens. Sungino, Kuartei, Melairei, Tellames, Nakamura, Eldebechel, and Tabelual.