The Indonesian Tuna Fishery – Jayapura

Where does your tuna come from?

Jayapura is the capital and the largest city in the Province of Papua. Jayapura is the fastest growing city in Indonesia and has a population of approximately 400,000, making it the most populated city on the entire island of New Guinea. Jayapura is located at coordinates 2.53°S 140.72°E.

Who caught your tuna?

Your tuna is caught by one of many handline fishermen that live in Jayapura, the provincial capital of Papua. Handline fishermen from this area catch Yellowfin tuna using small single-handed boats that go out to sea for 1 day at a time. Fishermen travel out to sea in groups and locate tuna schools using natural cues such as dolphins or birds, as tuna naturally associate with these. Fishermen then use highly selective handline gear: one man, one line, one hook, one tuna. An average daily catch usually consists of 1 to 3 fish.

Fishery Improvement Project

Through its Fishing & Living program, Anova Food is supporting improvements in the Indonesian Handline tuna fishery in many different locations across Indonesia. In partnership with NGOs such as MDPI and the Indonesian government, Fishing & Living is engaged in the Indonesian Handline tuna Fishery Improvement Project (FIP) that aims for Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification. Fishing & Living is also focused on improving the well being of the fishermen and their communities through community projects.