INFOFISH proudly marks its 45th anniversary in 2026, celebrating more than four decades of service in advancing sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development, strengthening regional cooperation, and supporting market intelligence, trade facilitation, technical advisory services, and capacity development across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond.
This milestone reflects not only INFOFISH’s legacy and achievements, but also a strategic moment of renewal and transformation, as the organisation positions itself to respond to evolving industry priorities, sustainability imperatives, digital transformation, and shifting regional market dynamics.
In conjunction with this anniversary, INFOFISH is pleased to announce the appointment of Mrs. Gemma Meermans Matainaho as Director of INFOFISH, marking a new chapter of leadership and strategic growth for the organisation.
Ms. Matainaho, from the INFOFISH Member State of Papua New Guinea, brings more than 18 years of experience in the fisheries sector, with strong expertise in corporate governance, administration, trade, marketing, and international business. She has served as Acting Director of INFOFISH for the past two years, and her appointment through the 40th INFOFISH Governing Council reaffirms the confidence placed by Member States in her leadership for the next three years.
Under her direction, INFOFISH will continue to strengthen its role as a leading regional and international centre of excellence in fisheries market intelligence, trade facilitation, technical advisory services, and capacity development in support of Member States and the industry as a whole. Key priorities will include strengthening governance implementation, enhancing value delivery to Member States, advancing digital modernisation and publication excellence, ensuring financial sustainability, and fostering a high-performing and professional organisational culture.
Ms. Matainaho holds a Master’s degree in International Business from Monash University, Victoria, Australia, and a Bachelor of Economics (Business Studies) from the University of Papua New Guinea.
As INFOFISH commemorates 45 years of service and impact, the organisation looks ahead with renewed purpose and commitment – honouring its legacy while actively shaping sustainable Blue Futures for generations to come.