In a significant breakthrough for Pacific fisheries, officials have finally agreed on the long-debated allocation of South Pacific albacore (SPA) tuna within the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of the Pacific Island Forum Fisheries Agency. This momentous decision comes after nearly two decades of negotiations and represents a major milestone in regional fisheries collaboration.
The newly established allocations will serve as the foundation for a binding agreement within the FFA Allocation Framework for South Pacific albacore, reaffirming the region’s dedication to sustainable, equitable, and responsible tuna fisheries management. Mona Ainu’u, Ministerial Chair of the Forum Fisheries Committee, expressed the importance of this agreement, stating, “South Pacific albacore is the backbone of our tuna longline fisheries and the economies of many of our coastal states.”
The approval of this framework introduces a forward-thinking, zone-based approach to longline fisheries management, which is essential for balancing the economic viability of tuna stocks with ecological health. Although SPA stocks are currently healthy, declining catch rates have raised concerns about the economic sustainability of the fisheries, particularly for domestic fleets in Pacific Island nations.
The agreement not only aims to secure economic returns for today but also emphasizes the importance of responsible stewardship for future generations. It promises to enhance the region’s influence in discussions at the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), focusing on the implementation of management procedures that recognize zone-based strategies and high seas governance.
FFA Director General Noan Pakop highlighted the collective achievement of the members, stating that this consensus illustrates the solidarity among Pacific nations. “It shows that our Members can come together to make bold, science-based decisions grounded in fairness and anchored in the Pacific Way of cooperation,” he said.
As the region looks forward to implementing this agreement, the commitment to ongoing collaboration with partners remains crucial to ensuring the long-term sustainability and prosperity of the Pacific’s tuna resources.
The recent developments suggest a promising future for the fisheries sector in the Pacific Islands, with potential growth in sustainable fishing practices that will bolster local economies while preserving the marine environment. This collaboration signifies hope not just for the fisheries, but for the resilience and economic stability of coastal communities dependent on these vital resources.
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