Government Adopts Two Important Conservation Management Measures at the 25th Session of IOTC

From June 7 – 11, 2021, the 25th Session of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission took place. In this session, Maldives took the important decision to adopt two key Conservation Management Measures. They are: 

• A revised Interim Plan for Rebuilding the Indian Ocean Yellowfin Tuna Stock 
• An amendment to the resolution on Harvest Control Rules for Skipjack Tuna in IOTC Area of Competence 

 
The initial proposal tabled by Maldives was at the 4th Special Session of the IOTC held in March 2021. The proposal reflected upon the advice of the IOTC Scientific Committee and was planned around advocating to reduce the catch of yellowfin tuna in the Indian OCean by atleast 15% compared to the catch levels of 2015. It also called for higher reductions of yellowfin tuna from various gear categories, however, it was deferred to the annual session following strong objections from several member states in vigorous grounds.  
 
Maldives continued to work alongside like-minded member states of IOTC in addressing the concerns raised in the Special Session and the additional exchanges from the bilateral and multilateral meetings. Following difficult negotiations and heavy compromises from many state members, the revised proposal by the Maldives was adopted on the last day of the Session. The proposal was co-sponsored by Kenya, South Africa, and the Comoros. This interim measure will be implemented in January 2021.  
 
As the Maldives relies heavily on tuna stocks for food security, jobs, and livelihood opportunities, it is essential to ensure the sustainability of these tuna stocks as key to survival of the Maldivian people and their way of life. It has become more evident with the Covid19 pandemic as tuna fisheries was the only economic activity that remained stable during this period. 
 
Maldives is grateful for the member states (G16) and others who contributed towards reaching a consensus on the measures relating to conservation of skipjack and yellowfin tuna. It will play a lead role in steering the activities towards ensuring lonf term sustainability of these stocks.  
 
The Government of the Republic of Maldives advocates sustainable fisheries practices around the globe. It also recognizes that more work needs to be done in the coming times and hence commits to engaging with stakeholders of the international industry to safeguard our shared resources.