The president of Palau, Tommy Remengesau, says the government is finalising deals for drones, radar and patrol boats to help enforce a ban on commercial fishing in its waters.

Palau plans to extend its marine sanctuary to cover all of its 600 thousand square kilometre exclusive economic zone in order to sustain fish stocks, protect the environment and grow its economy through ecotourism.

Mr Remengesau says the country must first ensure it can recoup the expected five million US dollars in losses from fishing fees and licences through tourism and also have enforcement in place to protect the zone.

"Our people are fully in support of this, the grassroots, the community, there is the political will. Congress is waiting for me to address these issues, before we move ahead."

Mr Remengesau says Palau hopes to have the sanctuary in place this year.