Speaking at the seafood industry’s annual conference, George Clement said the June result was an increase of $201 million on the same time last year, ”further demonstrating that we continue to make a significant contribution to the economy as one of the country’s main export earners,” he said.
“Last year industry accepted the Government’s aspirational goal of doubling export revenues by 2025 and we are on the growth path to achieve this,” he said.
This year marks the 30th anniversary of the fisheries Quota Management System (QMS), “a fisheries system that was world leading when it was established, and continues to stand the test of time”.
Prudent stewardship of New Zealand’s fisheries, underpinned by sound science are the cornerstones of the QMS, he said.
“The Ministry for Primary Industries has decades of peer-reviewed science that show steady and increasing levels of abundance in each of our main fish stocks.
“But this isn’t about resting on our laurels, while celebrating our success, we are very focused on the future and are constantly bringing in new improvements including trawl harvesting techniques, scientific assessments and innovative technology.”
A major announcement later today at the conference by one of the country’s largest fishing companies would demonstrate the confidence industry has in the future of New Zealand fisheries, he said.