Protecting PNG Waters.

Papua New Guinea’s (PNG) vast ocean territory, including more than 5,000 km of coastline and a 2.7 million km² Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), makes maritime security a vital national concern. Rich in tuna and marine biodiversity, PNG’s waters are essential for local livelihoods, national revenue and environmental sustainability. Yet this maritime domain faces ongoing threats. Foreign fishing fleets have been spotted operating within PNG’s maritime borders without authorisation, stretching from the South Fly District to the Gulf of Papua, raising tensions with coastal communities and highlighting gaps in border control and enforcement capacity. 

One of the greatest security challenges PNG confronts is illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. IUU activities deprive the country of income from its fisheries and strain natural resources. To counter this, PNG commissioned new surveillance patrol boats specifically designed to combat illegal fishing within its waters. These vessels, Illakini and Vanimo, enable the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) to better enforce marine laws, coordinate with Defence Force and Constabulary units and support multi-agency operations under regional frameworks. 

Capacity building and cooperation also play a critical role. PNG hosted High Seas Boarding and Inspection training for Fisheries Authority and Defence Force officers, strengthening practical skills for vessel inspection and surveillance, in partnership with regional agencies. Joint regional maritime security operations such as Operation Island Chief further reinforce Pacific unity in monitoring and deterring illegal fishing. 

On the policy front, PNG has joined the Food and Agriculture Organisation’s Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA). The PSMA, developed by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), is an international treaty designed to combat IUU fishing by preventing illegally caught fish from entering international markets. Under the PSMA, foreign fishing vessels must provide advance notice before entering ports and authorities can inspect their catch, crew and documentation. For PNG, joining the PSMA helps protect valuable marine resources, enforce domestic fisheries laws, reduce economic losses, support sustainable livelihoods and enhance collaboration with regional and international partners to secure its waters.

PNG’s maritime security strategy combines upgraded operational assets, enhanced training, regional cooperation and international legal tools to protect its marine resources. Continued investment in surveillance technology, enforcement capabilities and multi-stakeholder cooperation remains essential to safeguard the nation’s waters for future generations.

With billions at stake in PNG fisheries, does PNG have the capacity to stop the growing threat of IUU in PNG waters?