By Pita Ligaiula in Manila, Philippines
At the recent WCPFC22 meeting in Manila, Pacific nations heavily reliant on South Pacific albacore have emphasized the crucial role this fishery plays in their survival, urging the Tuna Commission to take decisive action to ensure its future.
The South Pacific Group (SPG), a coalition formed within the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA), has highlighted that South Pacific albacore is vital for the economic sustainability of southern longline fisheries and the coastal communities that depend on them. This coalition includes member countries such as the Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Samoa, Tonga, and Vanuatu, and was established to enhance cooperation in managing oceanic fisheries, with a primary focus on South Pacific albacore.
“Every SPG country heavily relies on South Pacific albacore for food security and trade, reinforcing our commitment to the resource’s economic viability,” stated Roseti Imo, Assistant Chief Executive Officer of Samoa’s Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries and spokesperson for the SPG. The group, collaborating with Australia and receiving support from territories including American Samoa, French Polynesia, and New Caledonia, has submitted various documents regarding the SPA fishery to the Commission for approval.
Since the beginning of 2023, the SPG has played an instrumental role in improving southern longline fisheries management by developing sustainability measures, proposing technical initiatives, and shaping the FFA’s collective stance on South Pacific albacore. These efforts are guided by the South Pacific Group Strategy 2023–2028, which aims to rejuvenate the fishery, enhance economic returns, and foster robust governance for southern fisheries.
With the WCPFC22 conference poised to make decisions regarding the long-awaited management protocols for South Pacific albacore, the SPG has expressed that the implications extend beyond mere regional interests; they also encompass the credibility of the Commission itself.
The SPG members include Cook Islands, Fiji, Niue, Samoa, Tonga (currently chairing), and Vanuatu, all advocating for a sustainable and prosperous future centered around South Pacific albacore.