In response to mounting concerns over the legality and validity of the agreement signed between Tuna Fishing Vanuatu Limited and UNIMED Glory SA regarding fishing rights in the South Pacific, a Commission of Inquiry has been established.

The Commission tasked with investigating the Jack Mackerel fishing agreement signed on March 20, 2010, and the subsequent agreement in August 2012, aims to assess the agreement's adherence to legal protocols and their impact on Vanuatu’s marine resources.

Tuna Fishing Vanuatu Limited, acting on behalf of the government, had entered into an agreement granting fishing rights to UNIMED Glory SA to fish jack mackerel with a very small percentage payment entered into the national treasury.

The COI comprises very experienced and local experts and they have been tasked with thorough examinations of the agreement and international fishing regulation and their socio-economic implications for Vanuatu.

Justice Minister John Nalau Amos emphasized the government’s commitment to upholding transparency, accountability, and sustainable management of Vanuatu’s natural resources.

The Commission of Inquiry is set to commence its work immediately, with a mandate to deliver its findings and recommendations to the government within 3 months timeframe given in the contract.

The chairperson of the Commission is Willie Jimmy Tapangararua, Secretary Armstrong Masanga, and the other 4 members namely Killion Taleo, Willie Kalo Tariliu, Tony Naliupis, and Silas Iatan.