By Pita Ligaiula in Manila, Philippines
Pacific fisheries officials have opened WCPFC22 with a united call for the adoption of the South Pacific albacore management procedure, signalling a coordinated FFA push to secure long-delayed reforms and strengthen outcomes for Small Island Developing States.
The Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) is profiling its delegates at the Manila meeting, highlighting national priorities and a collective agenda aimed at delivering “sustainable, fair and effective tuna management.”
“South Pacific Albacore is a key priority on the agenda at WCPFC22 this year,” said Kaon Tiamere, Director of the Oceanic Fisheries Division in Kiribati.
“We are conscious of adopting the SPA CMM at this meeting, noting that some elements of the measure still require further consultation to gain the full support of non-FFA Members. Despite this, we would like to see at least the less contentious issues progressed at this meeting. Continued collaboration as an FFA bloc, as seen in the past, remains fundamental to strengthening and advancing FFA national priorities at the Commission,” he said.
Tonga echoed that message, emphasising how vital albacore is to its national economy.
“Tonga’s delegation are grateful for the opportunity to attend the WCPFC22,” said Dr Siola’a Malimali, Deputy CEO of Tonga’s Ministry of Fisheries.
“The South Pacific Albacore fishery is very important to Tonga in terms of food security and economic development.
The key outcome we would like to advance in WCPFC22 is the approval of the South Pacific Albacore Management Procedure. We are also very grateful for the FFA members support towards better managing this resource.”
Solomon Islands focused on a broader package of measures, including harvest strategies, compliance and support for SIDS.
“Solomon Islands delegation aims to advance on harvest strategies, albacore management, FAD and EM/ER improvements, CMM reviews, climate considerations, strengthened compliance, and improved support for SIDS under Article 30,” said Charlyn Golu, Deputy Director – Offshore.
“Working together with FFA ensures our national priorities are well represented, promotes consistency, and regional unity to address key issues at the Commission,” she said.
Vanuatu, one of the region’s major participants in the albacore fishery, also pressed for strong outcomes.
“Vanuatu, as one of the major players in the South Pacific Albacore fishery, is urging for the adoption of the albacore Management Procedure and its Implementing CMM at WCPFC22, emphasising science-based, collaborative efforts by FFA Members,” said Tony Taleo, Deputy Director – Offshore.
“Key outcomes expected include equitable EEZ allocations, long-term stock sustainability, and unified regional action, building on WCPFC21’s agreed direction for effective albacore conservation and management.”
FFA is expected to continue highlighting national positions throughout the week as Pacific voices take the floor.
