By Pita Ligaiula in Manila, Philippines
New analysis from the Pacific Community (SPC) shows the South Pacific albacore fishery is under growing pressure, with industry performance weakening and fishing effort rising, highlighted the need for WCPFC22 to adopt a long-delayed management procedure.
The SPC evaluation, presented to the Tuna Commission Monday, shows albacore catch rates, profitability and fleet performance continue to trend downward, while effort and operational costs continue to climb.
The indicators paint a clear picture that without a Commission-adopted harvest strategy, the albacore fishery is drifting into deeper uncertainty.
SPC scientists noted that longline fleets have faced persistent declines in catch-per-unit-effort across several EEZs, with high fuel prices and expanding effort creating further strain on small domestic fleets. Several SIDS-based operators are operating on thin margins, mirroring warnings repeatedly raised by FFA members.
The evaluation highlights that the absence of an agreed management procedure is now the biggest risk for the fishery.
SPC warned that delays in adopting the MP are reducing the Commission’s ability to stabilise the stock, provide certainty to fleets, and support long-term planning for SIDS.
The report also shows that biological indicators remain within acceptable limits, but economic indicators continue to deteriorate — a widening gap that SPC says will only grow without a fixed, rules-based approach.
SPC’s modelling confirms that a precautionary management procedure, paired with responsive harvest control rules, would improve economic stability, ease pressure on domestic fleets, and protect the stock from unpredictable shifts linked to climate and effort expansion.
Scientists stressed that the evaluations conducted this year show the MP is “operationally ready” and would give the Commission a clear path to long-term stability for one of the region’s most important longline fisheries.
FFA members have consistently told WCPFC that the albacore fishery is a lifeline for several Pacific economies.
SPC’s assessment reinforces that message with hard data — and adds urgency to the Commission’s decision-making this week.
WCPFC22 is expected to decide whether the management procedure will finally be adopted after years of delays and stalled negotiations.
