On the International Day for the Fight Against Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing (05 June 2024), Papua New Guinea reaffirms its commitment to IUU fishing practices in PNG waters and safeguarding the Pacific region.

Mr. Justin Ilakini, National Fisheries Authority Managing Director in his press release statement spoke of the Government of Papua New Guinea’s efforts through the National Fisheries Authority in achieving such milestones in combating IUU fishing. “Through the implementation of cutting-edge technologies and comprehensive training programs, we have taken proactive measures to confront this persistent threat to our fisheries sector and whilst we celebrate our successes, we recognize the evolving nature of IUU fishing activities in our waters”, said Mr. Ilakini. He further reiterated that, as “IUU fishing tactics become increasingly sophisticated, our strategies must also adapt to effectively address this challenge.”

For full coverage of the press release refer to the National Fisheries Authority website and the FAO website

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The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) has reported that the fisheries production of the Philippines is projected to increase by 12 percent, reaching almost 2.9 million metric tons (MT) by 2032, driven by the growth in aquaculture. This significant increase in production may enable the Philippines to maintain its position among the top five largest fish producers in Asia.

Source: The Philippine Star

Maldives Fisheries Minister Ahmed Shiyam has emphasized the urgent need for collaborative efforts to create a level playing field, ensuring equitable opportunities for all stakeholders in the global tuna trade. He made this statement at the  18^th INFOFISH World Tuna Trade Conference and Exhibition, which was held alongside the Ministerial and Industry High-Level Dialogue on Sustainable Tuna Fisheries in Bangkok, Thailand.

Speaking about the importance of breaking down barriers to market access for tuna products from developing countries, particularly for small-scale fisheries, the Minister noted that the Maldives and other developing states struggle to compete with large industrial fleets and are facing significant challenges.

“It is high time that we join hands and work collaboratively to create a level playing field, ensuring equitable opportunities for all stakeholders in the global tuna trade,” he said.

According to the Fisheries Ministry, the Minister also highlighted the impacts of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, particularly by foreign fishing fleets. “This notorious practice undermines the livelihoods of countless fishers and coastal communities. It also undermines the efforts of responsible fishers, particularly in coastal states like the Maldives, where we have made several sacrifices to ensure that the sustainable culture of fishing is maintained through generations,” he said.

 The Minister also spoke about the government’s ongoing efforts to strengthen surveillance and tighten the fisheries framework to combat IUU fishing. Ministers and high-ranking representatives from significant tuna-producing and exporting nations, industry stakeholders, and international organizations participated in the dialogue.

Source: FIS