UK: Coastal states seriously concerned by IOTC’s vote for a FAD ban

Published 2023년 3월 16일

Tridge summary

The article highlights the outcomes of the 6th Special Session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) in Mombasa, Kenya, where a decision was made to implement a new conservation measure targeting drifting Fish Aggregating Devices (DFADs). Despite the measure's aim to support the depletion of yellowfin tuna stocks, it has faced significant opposition from 14 out of 30 IOTC member countries, including Comoros, Oman, Kenya, Somalia, and Seychelles. These countries contend that the measure imposes an unfair burden on purse seine fisheries and shows a lack of technical expertise. European fishing group Europêche and the International Seafood Sustainability Foundation (ISSF) have expressed concerns over the decision's fairness and scientific basis, promising to advocate for inclusive, consensus-based solutions at future IOTC meetings to ensure the sustainable management of tuna fisheries in the Indian Ocean.

Disclaimer:The above summary was generated by Tridge's proprietary AI model for informational purposes.

Original content

During the 6th Special Session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) that took place on February 3-5th in Mombasa, Kenya, a vote validated a new conservation and management measure against drifting Fish Aggregating Devices (DFADs). Out of the total 30 IOTC members countries, only 16 voted in favour of factually banning FAD fisheries in the Indian Ocean. According to European fishing group, Europêche, the lack of negotiation and of consensus on such an important decision is having already heavy consequences: Comoros[1], Oman[2] Kenya[3], the previous leader of the proposal, and Somalia[4] already handled their objection to IOTC. Seychelles announced that the country will object as well. In a press release, Europêche says: “As the meeting was hybrid, in case of a secret ballot, only participants present in the room would be allowed to vote. The proponents of the ban, conveniently asked the vote to be secret, petition which could not be refused according to IOTC’s rules of ...

Source: Fish Focus