Agreement on Port State Measures: A Vital Tool in Combatting Illegal Fishing
Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is a serious threat to marine ecosystems and global food security. The United Nations estimates that IUU fishing accounts for up to 26 million tons of fish caught annually, valued at up to $23.5 billion. To combat IUU fishing, the international community has relied on various regulatory frameworks and initiatives, including the Agreement on Port State Measures.
The Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA) is an international treaty adopted by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in 2009. The agreement aims to prevent, deter, and eliminate IUU fishing by strengthening the control and management of fishing vessels when they enter port. Under the PSMA, coastal states must undertake certain measures to ensure that foreign-flagged vessels are not engaged in illegal fishing activities.
One of the key provisions of the PSMA requires port states to conduct robust inspections of foreign-flagged vessels that request port services, such as fuel, water, or provisions. The inspections aim to identify and prevent the entry of illegally caught fish into the market. Port inspectors are trained to look for indications of IUU fishing, such as illegal gear, undersized fish, or evidence of fish being caught in a prohibited area.
Another crucial provision of the PSMA requires port states to share information about IUU fishing activities with other countries and regional fisheries management organizations. This sharing of information helps to identify and track IUU fishing vessels across different jurisdictions. It also strengthens cooperation among coastal states, allowing them to coordinate their efforts to combat IUU fishing.
The PSMA has been widely recognized as a vital tool in the fight against IUU fishing. As of August 2021, 68 countries and the European Union have become parties to the agreement. Notably, some of the world`s largest seafood markets, including the United States, the European Union, and Japan, have ratified the agreement. This broad support underscores the importance of coordinated global action to combat IUU fishing.
In conclusion, the Agreement on Port State Measures is an essential tool in the global effort to combat IUU fishing. By strengthening the control and management of fishing vessels when they enter port, the PSMA helps to prevent illegally caught fish from entering the market. Its provisions also encourage international cooperation and information sharing to track and identify IUU fishing vessels across different jurisdictions. As an international community, we must continue to support and strengthen the implementation of the PSMA to ensure the long-term sustainability of our oceans and seafood resources.