The Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) is currently hosting the 21st Management Options Consultation (MOC21) at its headquarters in Honiara, Solomon Islands. This significant event convenes representatives from 17 FFA Member countries, alongside partners from the Pacific Community (SPC), the Parties to the Nauru Agreement Office (PNAO), and the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), as well as technical consultants.
In his opening remarks, FFA Director-General Noan David Pakop emphasized that MOC21 serves as a fundamental element of regional fisheries governance. This meeting provides a pivotal opportunity for member nations to unify and enhance their positions before the 22nd Regular Session of the WCPFC, scheduled for December. Pakop noted the importance of ensuring that collective positions accurately reflect national realities while being anchored in the shared goal of safeguarding Pacific fisheries for future generations.
This year’s consultation highlights several key priorities, including the enhancement of Conservation and Management Measure (CMM) 2013-06, improvements in transshipment processes, and the advancement of harvest strategies. Emerging topics such as climate change risk assessment tools, bycatch management, and ecosystem strategies will also be topics of discussion. A crucial focus for MOC21 is the future of the South Pacific albacore fishery, with hopes of adopting a robust Management Procedure at WCPFC21 in December. Pakop drew inspiration from the successful adoption of the skipjack Management Procedure in 2022, signaling the effectiveness of regional unity in achieving key milestones.
During his speech, Pakop recognized the commitment of all members in preparing for the consultations, underscoring the collaborative spirit seen among PNA and SPG subgroups, which have worked outside scheduled sessions to ensure thorough discussions. He also acknowledged the vital scientific support from SPC and WCPFC that has guided decision-making.
A significant milestone mentioned by Pakop was the conclusion of a lengthy process regarding proportional allocation that took over 20 years, highlighting the strength of collective action among FFA members. MOC21 will unfold throughout the week as members strive to construct science-based proposals for the sustainable management of the South Pacific albacore fishery, thereby ensuring ongoing regional benefits for Pacific communities.
Pakop concluded on a hopeful note, urging participants to maintain their spirit of unity and emphasized that when the Pacific nations work together, extraordinary achievements can be realized. MOC21 is set to culminate in the Special Forum Fisheries Committee (FFC)140 meeting on Friday, 31 October 2025, promising an ongoing commitment to sustainable fisheries management and regional collaboration.