Tuvalu Prime Minister Feleti Teo has announced his nation is finalising its first-ever National Ocean Policy, with plans to officially launch the framework on 08 June 2026 to coincide with World Ocean Day.
The Prime Minister described the policy as a national compass intended to govern the country’s vast maritime territory and align local efforts with global environmental goals.
The policy is the result of an extensive, inclusive consultation process supported by international partners, including the Asian Development Bank, National Geographic Pristine Seas, and the Wildlife Conservation Society.
“Tuvalu firmly believes that strong ocean movements begin with clear national directions backed by science, regional cooperation, and community ownership,” the Prime Minister stated.
The initiative has also led to the creation of a dedicated Ocean Unit tasked with overseeing the policy’s implementation across Tuvalu’s 750,000 square kilometer Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
A formal commitment to establish Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) across all eight outer islands, aiming to protect 30 percent of coastal habitats.
Prime Minister reaffirming that all archipelagic waters and territorial seas remain closed to commercial fishing.
Utilising data from a major National Geographic scientific expedition conducted last year to inform future conservation decisions.
The Prime Minister emphasised that Pacific nations are not passive bystanders to the decline of ocean health.
He threw Tuvalu’s full support behind the Melanesian Ocean Corridor of Resolutions, calling for a unified regional secretariat and a roadmap backed by sustainable financing.
“The Pacific Ocean connects all of us,” he said.
“Its future will depend on the courage of our leadership today and the strength of our collective action tomorrow.”
PM Teo also announced that a documentary showcasing Tuvalu’s marine biodiversity and traditional ocean stewardship is expected to premiere later this year, further elevating the nation’s environmental efforts on the global stage.
