A significant milestone was reached this week, with the signing of the Tuna Treaty Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) between the Pacific Island States and the United States. This MOU permits the US fleet, operating under the Treaty, to continue fishing in the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of the Pacific Island Parties throughout 2024. Speaking at the launch of the Memorandum of Understanding, the Pacific Island Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA) Director General, Dr Manu Tupou-Roosen emphasized on the strong commitment demonstrated by both the Pacific Island Parties and the United States to their ongoing partnership. Dr. Manu, further remarked that with the signing of the MOU, “it also creates the space for the Parties to finalize the work on a revised Treaty for 2025 and beyond. Further, highlighting that it paves, the way for enhanced collaboration between the Parties in key areas such as combating illegal fishing and tackling climate change.” 

Source: Pacific Islands Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA)

The Southeast Asian Fisheries Development Center Aquaculture Department (SEAFDEC/AQD), in its endeavor to establish the tuna farming industry in the Philippines, has gathered juvenile wild mackerel tuna with the goal of creating a captive-bred population. Thelizing the otoshi-ami fish trap capturing technique and meticulous planning, especially on the transportation protocols, the movement process has been successfully completed. The captured tunas are currently under close monitoring for potential spawning of viable eggs by the researchers at SEAFDEC/AQD. 

Source: Thefishsite.com

SEAFDEC conducted a 3-day courtesy visit to Malaysia from February 28 to March 1, 2024. Led by Dr. Suttinee Limthammahisorn, the SEAFDEC Secretary-General and Chief of Training Department, the delegation toured Terengganu and paid courtesy visit to the Director General of the Department of Fisheries of Malaysia and the Council Director for SEAFDEC. The visit concluded in both parties agreeing to explore collaboration opportunities in the discussed areas, highlighting mutual commitment.

Source: SEAFDEC