The Indian Ocean Tuna Commission is expected to propose a 20% reduction in catches of yellowfin tuna.
The Seychelles News Agency reports that according to the Ministry of Finance, more than 430,000 tonnes of yellowfin were caught in 2014 and between 2010 and 2014 the average was 370,000 tonnes, while the maximum sustainable level is judged to be a 421,000 tonne fishery on yellowfin.
The Ministry’s adviser commented further that while the current level of fishing may threaten the stock, yellowfin reproduce rapidly and their growth rate is faster than that of bluefin tuna. He predicted that there could be a short-term impact on the Seychelles, where 90% of yellowfin catches are discharged, and there could also be effects on the island’s industry with fourteen tuna purse seiners operating under the Seychelles flag.
The Indian Ocean Tuna Commission has its headquarters in the Seychelles capital of Victoria.
