Two laboratory officers from the Seafood Toxicology Laboratory Division (STLD) have returned from the APFAN Regional Workshop held in Perth, Australia from 30 September to 2 October 2026. This annual platform brings together laboratory officers and experts from 17 Asia-Pacific countries to share knowledge, exchange experiences and maintain ongoing professional networks. The workshop featured 33 presentations exploring key areas that support stronger laboratory capabilities, including ISO/IEC 17025:2017 Management and Technical Systems, Advances in Food Composition and Nutrition; Proficiency Testing, Residues & Toxins in Food Products, Food Microbiology & Emerging Pathogens, Indigenous & Underutilised Foods; Analyses for Tourism, Capacity Building & Regional Initiatives, Food Science & Technology and Food Safety and Trade.

With construction of the laboratory building underway, the knowledge gained will help the division prepare for laboratory setup and future operations in Kiribati. Continued collaboration through the network and annual workshops will support staff development, quality management and improved testing practices and laying the foundation for reliable laboratory services that will contribute to seafood safety, consumer protection and trade.

The Ministry expresses its sincere gratitude to the World Bank through Pacific Regional Oceanscape Program and to Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade through Tobwaan Waara Program for their continuous funding support, enabling staff to build technical skills, participate in regional knowledge exchanges and prepare for the laboratory’s future operations in Kiribati.