The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) held its 22nd Regular Meeting in Istanbul from the11th to the 19th of November 2011, preceded by the meeting of the Compliance Committee.
Under the leadership of the European Union ICCAT adopted an impressive number of conservation measures. Most importantly, the management plans for Mediterranean Swordfish and for Tropical Tunas (Bigeye and Yellowfin) were agreed as well as a fishing ban for silky shark and mitigation measures against incidental catches of seabirds, all upon proposals made by the EU.
The EU also supported proposals for the conservation of North Atlantic Swordfish, North and South Atlantic Albacore. The EU’s initiative for the best possible science led to the adoption of a comprehensive package of measures, including two resolutions to enhance the scientific process and the presentation of scientific advice and a measure to withdraw fishing possibilities if no data are submitted by a contracting party.
This year’s compliance assessment showed a considerable improvement by many contracting parties, including the EU. Moreover, the decision to roll out an electronic catch document (e-BCD) for bluefin tuna as promoted by the EU will further enhance the traceability of this species throughout the market chain and thus, enhance the ability to detect fraud and deter illegal shipments.