Timor-Leste

Hera Port Fisheries Facilities Rehabilitation Project

The inshore marine resources of Timor-Leste are limited and vulnerable to overfishing, while the offshore resources of smaller pelagic species are fast growing and in robust abundance. To catch such species of sardines and smaller mackerels, larger fishing boats are needed and hence the need for a dedicated fishing harbor.

Hera port is expected to facilitate the development of offshore fishing. Over a period of 5 years it is expected that there would be an incremental catch of 1,360 tons. This would result in an increased intake of fish protein from 8% to 56% of the FAO-recommended per capita daily consumption of fish. These projected results are based on an economic internal rate of return of 87%, under the assumption that the Government will promote the development of traditional offshore fishing vessels.

Promotion of offshore fisheries at Hera Port can increase fish supply and brought down prices, which will lead to improving nutrition and health. It will also ease pressure on inshore fishery resources. Increased fisheries production will directly employ fishers and indirectly create jobs in marketing, processing, distribution, and supporting services.

Eighth Progress Report on Hera Port Fisheries Facilities Rehabilitation Project