Barriers to tilapia aquaculture in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste

The development of aquaculture in the Indo-Pacific region is seen as an opportunity to enhance food security and provide livelihood options for rural communities. In parts of Asia and South America, tilapia aquaculture has become a critical source of protein for local populations and has been shown to be an avenue of growth for smallholder enterprises. However, there has been limited growth in tilapia aquaculture in Timor-Leste and Pacific island countries. While the literature on tilapia aquaculture is extensive, it does not provide accessible solutions to address the specific challenges of tilapia aquaculture in Timor-Leste and Pacific island countries. To understand and guide future research investment, ACIAR commissioned a review of the major challenges to tilapia aquaculture in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste. The results of the review, published in this technical report, provide insight into important areas of focus for future research and capacity development. The report also interprets the information available in the context of contemporary challenges, such as climate change, market-oriented value chains, and social and cultural attitudes towards tilapia and tilapia farming.

Citation

Leo Nankervis, Michael Phillips, Timothy Pickering, Jesmond Sammut, Joshua Noiney, Jharendu Pant, Daykin Harohau, Chinthaka Hewavitharane, Salote Waqairatu, Geoff Allan. (5/5/2025). Barriers to tilapia aquaculture in Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands and Timor-Leste. Canberra, Australia: Australian Center for International Agricultural Research (ACIAR).