New analysis from the Pacific Community (SPC) reveals increasing pressures on the South Pacific albacore fishery, calling attention to the decline of industry performance and rising fishing efforts. As WCPFC22 approaches, there is an urgent need for the adoption of a long-awaited management procedure.
The SPC evaluation, presented to the Tuna Commission, highlights a concerning trend: albacore catch rates, profitability, and overall fleet performance are on the decline, while operational costs and fishing efforts continue to surge. Without a decisive management strategy adopted by the Commission, the albacore fishery faces uncertainty.
Persistent declines in catch-per-unit-effort across various Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) are reported, with SPC scientists attributing this to high fuel prices and increased efforts placing additional strain on smaller domestic fleets. Operators based in Small Island Developing States (SIDS) are reportedly experiencing tight margins, echoing long-standing concerns raised by members of the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA).
According to the SPC report, the lack of an agreed-upon management procedure is the most significant threat facing the fishery. The ongoing delays in adopting this procedure jeopardize the Commission’s ability to stabilize fish stocks, assure fleets of their sustainability, and support long-term planning for SIDS.
While biological indicators remain acceptable, the economic outlook is deteriorating, leading to an alarming gap that could widen if a robust, rules-based approach is not implemented promptly. SPC’s modeling suggests that a precautionary management procedure, coupled with responsive harvest control rules, could enhance economic stability, ease pressure on domestic fleets, and safeguard stocks from unpredictable fluctuations linked to climate change and increased fishing efforts.
Scientists assert that evaluations conducted this year demonstrate that the management procedure is “operationally ready,” providing a clear path towards long-term stability for one of the region’s vital longline fisheries. FFA members have consistently emphasized that the albacore fishery is a crucial economic lifeline for several Pacific economies.
SPC’s assessment reinforces this critical message with compelling data and adds a sense of urgency to the decision-making of the Commission this week. As WCPFC22 convenes, it is anticipated that the Commission will finally decide whether to adopt the long-awaited management procedure, following years of delays and stalled negotiations. The outcome of this meeting could significantly impact the sustainability of the albacore fishery and the economies of the Pacific region.
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