The IATTC, comprising 21 member nations, convened to manage highly migratory fish stocks using the best available science and consensus-driven decisions. The US spearheaded critical advancements in tropical tuna management, Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) recovery, and regulatory simplification, reinforcing America’s commitment to both environmental stewardship and economic prosperity for its fishing industry.
Bolstering Tropical Tuna Management
The United States led discussions on managing bigeye, yellowfin, and skipjack tuna and secured $1.8 million in funding for the Regional Tuna Tagging Program. This US-backed initiative will enhance understanding of tuna distribution and stock health, ensuring sustainable harvests that support US fishermen. The US also championed the creation of the Integrated Port Sampling Program, merging traditional and enhanced monitoring efforts to deliver precise data on stock health and fleet impacts. By reducing closure days for purse seine vessels—after scientific confirmation of healthy tuna stocks—the US fought to ensure greater access for American fishermen to these stocks without compromising sustainability.
Pioneering Fish Aggregating Device (FAD) Recovery
FADs are critical to efficient fishing in the Eastern Pacific, but abandoned FADs can harm marine ecosystems. The American Tunaboat Association, showcasing US leadership, spearheaded a multinational industry coalition that committed significant funding to FAD recovery programs. With strong US support, the IATTC adopted an expanded resolution to streamline FAD retrieval, promote biodegradable materials, and deploy tracking devices, in an effort to protect marine environments while supporting fishing communities.
Additional Measures to Support American Interests
Furthermore, the United States drove the adoption of measures to reduce regulatory burdens, ensuring American fishermen greater operational efficiency. In addition to securing several adopted measures, the US also supported the creation of a South Pacific Albacore Joint Working Group with the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, extending measures to protect silky sharks, and establishing a Dorado Working Group to assess stock health—initiatives that safeguard America’s long-term fishing interests while promoting global sustainability.
“America’s leadership at the IATTC demonstrates our commitment to sustainable fisheries that protect our oceans and empower our fishermen,” said Andrew Lawler. “These measures strengthen our economy, enhance conservation, and position the US as a global leader in responsible fishery management.”
The United States remains dedicated to advancing science-based, America-first policies that ensure the prosperity of its fishing industry and the health of the Eastern Pacific’s marine ecosystems.
