Bank South Pacific (BSP) is proud to announce its Platinum Sponsorship of the 9th Pacific Tuna Forum, contributing K100, 000 in support of the region’s premier fisheries conference. The Forum will be held in Nadi, Fiji on the 14th and 15th of October 2025.
As the leading financial institution with the largest branch network across PNG and the South Pacific, BSP is committed to supporting initiatives that promote sustainable development and economic empowerment. The Pacific Tuna Forum serves as a vital platform for dialogue, innovation, and collaboration among governments, industry leaders, and communities working to shape the future of tuna fisheries in the region.
“Tuna is not only a cornerstone of our marine ecosystem, but also a pillar of economic opportunity for many Pacific nations,” said BSP Acting General Manager Corporate Bank, David Bishop.
“We are encouraged by the Forum’s focus on onshore processing and value-added strategies that promise to unlock greater benefits for our communities, create jobs, and strengthen local economies,” Mr Bishop added.
BSP Acting General Manager Corporate Bank – David Bishop giving his remarks.
The two-day event stands as the Pacific region’s leading tuna industry conference, spotlighting key issues in tuna resource management, emerging market and marketing opportunities, international trade dynamics and barriers, innovation in product development, and strategies to expand the region’s tuna investment landscape, among other critical topics.
Meanwhile, the National Fisheries Authority (NFA) Managing Director Justin Ilakini expressed gratitude to BSP for their generous support, noting that the conference is expected to draw a strong turnout of participants from across the region.
“The Pacific Tuna Forum is an initiative of the Government of Papua New Guinea through the NFA – the 9th Pacific Tuna Forum is organized in partnership with the Government of Fiji through their Ministry of Fisheries and INFOFISH an intergovernmental organization specializing in fisheries trade, market development and aquaculture,” said Mr Ilakini.
He further highlighted that the Pacific Tuna Forum is recognized as a premier tuna industry event by regional fisheries management organization including the Forum Fisheries Agency, Secretariat of the Pacific Community, Parties to the Nauru Agreement, and the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission.
National Fisheries Authority Managing Director – Joseph Ilakini speaking during the presentation.
“The fact that the NFA has been consistently holding this biannual event is also a testament to the support of the government, industry and business community including BSP,” Mr Ilakini added.
BSP’s sponsorship reflects its broader commitment to being more than just a bank—it is a partner in progress. Through support for small businesses, infrastructure development, and regional forums like this, BSP continues to invest in better livelihoods and brighter futures for Pacific peoples.
BSP commends the organizers of the Pacific Tuna Forum for their vision and dedication, and looks forward to the outcomes of this year’s discussions. Together, we can champion sustainability, innovation, and inclusive growth across our blue Pacific.