IOTC – Indian Ocean Tuna Commission

Focus Ask – Yellowfin Rebuilding

Adopt scientific-based catch limits for yellowfin tuna that end overfishing and rebuild the stock; and agree on additional measures such as FAD management measures and fisheries closures aligned with latest scientific advice.

Also in 2024:

  • Adopt management procedures for swordfish and skipjack.
  • Establish a timeline for transition to fully biodegradable drifting FADs (dFADs) that at minimum aligns with those of other RFMOs.
NGO RFMO Map - IOTC

NGO Tuna Forum RFMO Priorities for Immediate Action

View PDF of RFMO Immediate Actions

Aligned NGOs request that all RFMOs take immediate action to progress the following priorities:

  • Adopt and implement robust management procedures for tunas and other targeted stocks, including swordfish and blue sharks.
  • Require 100% observer coverage (human and/or electronic) in industrial tuna fisheries, including all those vessels engaged in at sea transshipment.
  • Adopt and/or strengthen at-sea transshipment measures in line with best practices, such as those recommended in the NGO Tuna Forum’s Aligned Guidance on At-Sea Transshipment.
  • Strengthen FAD management provisions to at least the level defined in the NGO Tuna Forum’s Aligned Guidance on FAD Management.
  • Strengthen compliance mechanisms to ensure RFMO processes are transparent and robust, members are held accountable for the implementation of all conservation management measures and data reporting requirements, and there are clear consequences for non-compliance.
  • Implement and strengthen bycatch mitigation measures to effectively minimize bycatch and proactively reduce fishing induced mortality of ETP species, non-target species and non-retained bycatch in line with NGO Tuna Forum’s Aligned Bycatch Mitigation Expectations.
  • Require fins naturally attached for ALL (i.e., fresh and frozen) sharks without exceptions, adopting the globally acknowledged best practice to prevent finning.
  • Establish recommendations for labor and safety standards for crew and observers on fishing vessels based on relevant international labor conventions.

IOTC Letters

IOTC Letters Archive