Fiji has heralded the adoption of the South Pacific Albacore Management Procedure (MP) at the WCPFC22 meeting in Manila as a significant breakthrough in the region’s fisheries management, emphasizing a commitment to science-based approaches. Meli Raicebe, Fiji’s Principal Fisheries Officer, described this development as a “monumental achievement,” marking a critical milestone for the management of Pacific tuna.
Raicebe expressed that the successful adoption of the SPA MP is a decisive move towards implementing a science-driven harvest strategy. He underscored the achievement as one of the region’s most important initiatives, highlighting the importance of collective action among the Commission’s members.
“This decision is a powerful testament to the unity and commitment of the WCPFC membership to science-based fisheries management,” Raicebe stated, reflecting on the collaborative efforts that went into this landmark decision. He noted that Fiji views the MP as a vital step toward fulfilling its obligation to safeguard the albacore fishery, which is crucial for the long-term sustainability and economic viability of communities and industries reliant on South Pacific albacore.
Raicebe acknowledged the compromises made by various member states and extended gratitude to all stakeholders involved in the process, including the FFA Secretariat and other contributing parties.
Furthermore, he recognized the Tuna Commission’s role, complimenting the leadership and efficient handling of discussions that allowed for the swift progress of the meeting. The implementation of HCR7 under the South Pacific Albacore MP resolves years of stagnation and lays the groundwork for a comprehensive harvest strategy aimed at protecting one of the region’s economically vital tuna stocks.
This collaborative effort marks a hopeful future for the sustainability of fisheries in the South Pacific, ensuring that the fishery remains robust for generations to come.
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