February 1, 2008

Brunei to develop two aquaculture facilities

Brunei's fisheries sector could earn annual revenue of about $60 million from two developing facilities in the Tutong district.

The two facilities, which are estimated to produce an annual output of 5,600 tonnes, will facilitate aquaculture activities and attract both local and foreign investment.

Brunei expects a massive boost to its fisheries revenue once the development is completed. Partially developed over a land area of 459 hectares, the two facilities are meant for shrimp farming in the Penyatang River, with 40 hectares designated for fish farming in the same Telisai area.

A representative from the strategic development division of the fisheries department, Hj Sabri Hj Mohd Taha, said they hope that the facilities would be ready by next year.

Hj Sabri revealed that they have awarded a Taiwanese company to begin grouper fish farming and that the firm is a joint venture with a local business. He added that they are inviting entrepreneurs and businesses to apply for the tender to move into the facilities and develop the shrimp industry.

The closing date to submit tender application is on February 26.