The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) recently concluded its 21st Management Options Consultation (MOC21) alongside the Special 140th Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC) Officials Meeting in Honiara, Solomon Islands. These important discussions affirmed a collaborative regional strategy as preparations ramp up for the 22nd Regular Session of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) scheduled for December.
Over two weeks of consultations ending on October 31, 2025, FFA members rallied behind a cohesive package of draft proposals aiming to bolster fisheries management across the region. One of the central issues addressed was the management of South Pacific Albacore (SPA). The committee endorsed draft measures that include a South Pacific Albacore Management Procedure (SPA MP) along with other associated conservation and management strategies. This initiative, which has developed over two years, focuses on employing a science-based methodology to establish sustainable catch limits for this crucial species.
The proposed regulations will specifically be implemented for all longline and troll fishing conducted south of 10° South latitude, reinforcing the equitable distribution of fishing opportunities between national jurisdictions and the high seas. This initiative builds upon a SPA allocation agreement reached by Fisheries Ministers in July, which calls for a just, zoned approach after extensive negotiations lasting two decades.
In their discussions, FFA members reaffirmed their commitment to the unique needs of Small Island Developing States (SIDS) by proposing an independent review of Article 30 of the WCPF Convention. This review will evaluate how effectively the Commission meets the specific needs of SIDS and whether any new management measures could impose excessive burdens on developing nations.
FFC deliberations also highlighted the imperative to address climate change’s impact on tuna distribution. Members stressed the necessity of considering climate-related shifts in fish populations when determining future catch limits, underscoring the pivotal role that Pacific nations play in the sustainable management of tuna stocks.
Furthermore, recognizing ongoing challenges with high-seas transshipment reforms, FFA members committed to enhancing enforcement of current regulations. This will include establishing clearer eligibility criteria for vessels and increasing monitoring of transshipment activities to ensure better transparency.
With regard to seabird protection, FFA members proposed extending measures that would require longline vessels to utilize at least two seabird mitigation strategies, aiming to safeguard endangered species such as the Antipodean albatross.
FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop characterized 2025 as “the year of the albacore” during his comments at FFC140, celebrating the significant achievements made through regional cooperation. He emphasized the importance of unity and commitment in the sustainable management of fisheries, asserting that these collective efforts position the Pacific as a frontrunner in global responsible tuna management.
The unified positions established during FFC140 will significantly influence the Pacific’s contributions at WCPFC22 in Manila, Philippines, this December. With a hopeful agenda for sustainable fisheries in the Pacific, the region is well-prepared to advance proposals concerning SPA management, considerations for SIDS, transshipment reforms, and seabird conservation.