French Pacific territories have raised strong objections to proposals at the WCPFC22 conference held in Manila, arguing that the suggested measures may jeopardize their domestic albacore fisheries and contradict commitments to protect Small Island Developing States (SIDS). Leading the charge, French Polynesia highlighted their local communities’ inability to cope with the economic instability introduced by one of the proposed harvest control rules.
Representatives from French Polynesia emphasized the significance of albacore fishing to their economy, pointing out that their fleets operate exclusively within their Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). They stressed that South Pacific albacore is crucial not only for fisheries but also for a comprehensive value chain that includes vessel maintenance, shipbuilding, fish processing, and distribution—industries that employ thousands of households.
Citing Article 5 of the Convention, their delegation expressed concern that any measures threatening their delicate economic landscape would fail to meet the Convention’s objectives. They specifically called for the dismissal of RCO 10, arguing that it would undermine the sustainability of their local fishery.
RCO 10 pertains to a proposed harvest control rule for managing Southern Pacific albacore that is currently under review. French officials affirmed their support for the territories involved, emphasizing how vital the albacore stock is for the three Pacific collectivities involved in the discussions. They noted that both French Polynesia and New Caledonia rely greatly on South Pacific albacore for food security and advocated for the adoption of management procedures based on HCR 7 or HCR 13, with HCR 7 viewed as the most promising compromise.
The Commission Chair clarified that negotiations would not accommodate new options, stating that the three main management procedures proposed do not include alternatives beyond those that have already been evaluated. A consensus emerged among multiple delegations in favor of adopting HCR 7, including those who had initially supported HCR 13.
New Caledonia reiterated that extensive scientific research had informed the decision-making process, insisting that a final choice needs to be made among the three harvesting control rules. They cautioned that selecting HCR 10 could impose undue strain on SIDS and participating territories.
As local fleets, processors, workers, and regional economies hang in the balance, there is mounting pressure on WCPFC22 to find a decision that aligns stock protection needs with the welfare of communities that depend on these resources. The future of albacore fisheries presents both a challenge and an opportunity for sustainable development across the region, highlighting the importance of the negotiations at this conference.