The status of statistical reporting from artisanal fisheries in Vanuatu

Abstract

In common with other Pacific Island countries, the Government of Vanuatu has pursued a policy of developing small scale artisanal fisheries to improve the supply of fresh fish and to provide income earning opportunities at the village level. This policy has led to the development of an artisanal fishing industry that was initially based on the exploitation of deep slope fishes but is presently diversifying into catching large pelagic fishes and shallow water reef fish. Vanuatu also has a button and ornamental shell industry based chiefly on the harvests of the top shell (Trochus niloticus) that has grown from two processing plants in 1990 to eight in 1992. Finally, the islands of Vanuatu have large numbers of coconut crabs, which are harvested mainly for hotels and restaurants that serve the important tourism industry in Vanuatu.