Pacific tuna fisheries remain among the healthiest globally, providing significant economic and social benefits, as discussed at the 54th Pacific Islands Forum held in Honiara. The Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) reported that key tuna stocks, such as Skipjack, Yellowfin, Bigeye, and Albacore, are biologically healthy—a unique claim that the Pacific region can make.
For 46 years, the FFA has been instrumental in coordinating regional fisheries management among its 17 member countries. This collaboration is rooted in a vision established in 1979 to protect oceanic fisheries and ensure sustainability. FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop highlighted the successes achieved through unity, emphasizing the agency’s mission to enhance the value derived from tuna while maintaining the health of fish stocks for future generations.
Several significant achievements have been realized in recent times. The Pacific region’s fishing fleets now capture 61% of the catch value within its waters, a notable increase from 38% a decade ago. Additionally, tuna processing has nearly doubled since 2015, reaching 286,000 metric tonnes. Employment in tuna-related industries has risen by 19% since 2015, now employing over 26,000 individuals. Government revenues from licenses and access fees have reached approximately US$500 million annually, supporting essential services such as healthcare and education.
In a recent move, the endorsement of the East New Britain Initiative (ENBi) aims to stimulate investment opportunities and add value to the tuna industry. Moreover, after nearly 20 years of negotiation, the region has agreed on a proportional allocation framework for South Pacific Albacore, preparing a cohesive front for discussions at the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC).
The FFA is also pleased with the extended Economic Assistance Agreement with the United States under the Treaty on Fisheries, valued at US$60 million annually over ten years. Issues with payment delays have been resolved, ensuring the smooth continuation of this financial arrangement.
Future-oriented initiatives such as the newly adopted Ocean Literacy Initiative aim to integrate traditional Pacific knowledge into education systems, fostering cultural and scientific ocean understanding among future generations.
Despite the progress, challenges remain, notably the impact of climate change, which is shifting tuna stocks eastward and affecting member economies. Illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing continues to pose a threat, but effective surveillance has already reduced these losses by half since 2016. Solidarity, innovation, and maintaining a focus on members’ priorities are crucial as the Pacific region works to safeguard its marine resources.
The FFA remains committed to a collective future where Pacific peoples benefit first from their tuna resources, advocating for sustainable fisheries management practices that secure both the environment and livelihoods for future generations.
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