RD values fish exports to EU

By SHIRLEY MAULUDU
THE RD Fishing company in Madang says it values the export it makes to the European Union market.
Operations manager Rafael Lapitan said it was a joint effort by the National Fisheries Authority and the Government which had ensured that the country was removed from European Union’s “yellow card list”.
“The yellow card was really an issue not only for us but nationally as well,” he said.
“We did our part by having all those findings for the National Fisheries Authority to comply with, and have them submitted within the time given.
“NFA is really crucial because without them, and without their assistance, we cannot get over the issue of yellow card.
“There was also political involvement where policies concerning the industry had to be rectified to comply with EU regulations.
“We must maintain our accreditation with EU.
“And without certification and accreditation from NFA, we cannot export our product to EU. It’s very crucial.
“We are rigidly maintaining our certification systems with the control of NFA.”
Manager administration division Emmanuel Pacifico  said: “When Papua New Guinea was issued that yellow card as a warning, not only RD but other players in the industry were also affected.
“So during that time, NFA, held a series of meetings with the relevant authorities. Based on the effort from the industry and relevant authorities, the yellow card was lifted.
“It was not a one-sided effort but a collective input by every concerned authorities and organisations in the industry.”