THE Western Provincial (EP) Executive Government welcomes the lifting of the Bech-de-mer ban following the announcement by the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources (MFMR) last week.

Western Province Deputy Premier Brian Lotikena confirmed this to Solomon Star in an interview early this week.

He said rural villagers can now dive for and sell Bech-de-mer products to earn money and meet their needs.

“It is good that the ban was lifted so that rural people can harvest Bech-de-mer, sell it to earn money, and meet their needs and wants,” he stated.

The harvesting of this marine species became effective April 22, 2025.

According to an article published by the Ministry, the Bech-de-mer Revocation Order, “Revocation of Prohibited Activities (Fishing or Possession of Bech-de-mer) Order 2025,” was issued by the Director of Fisheries of the Ministry of Fisheries and Marine Resources.

This was done under section 22(2) of the Fisheries Management Act 2015, with reference to section 36(a) of the Interpretation and General Provisions Act (Cap.85).

The high-level delegation from Fujian is now in the Western Province to discuss productive sectors such as agriculture, fisheries, tourism, and forestry.

In the fishery sector, discussions will include marine resources, and how to develop them to provide revenue and job opportunities for the province.

Bech-de-mer is one of the valued marine species.

Despite its value, the Ministry wants all exporters to comply with fishery rules for Bech-de-mer so that the harvest and export will be sustainable for future use.

Bech-de-mer, also known as trepang, is dried, processed sea cucumber flesh, which is considered a delicacy in Asian and other cuisines.

By LACHLAN SHYVES EDDIE 

Solomon Star, Honiara