Reunion Pêche Australe, a subsidiary of the Reunimer Group, has obtained MSC certification for its Patagonian toothfish fishery operated in the French Southern and Antarctic Territories (TAAF). This recognition is the culmination of three years of rigorousenvironmental responsibility and scientific transparency practices.
Established in 2017, Reunion Pêche Australe operates 68-metre longliner Atlas Cove, which has fished for Patagonian toothfish using demersal longlines since 2022, with trips lasting two to two and a half months, and with all catches landed in Réunion. With the exception of a forty-day closure around Kerguelen in February-March, this is a year-round fishery.
For the past three years the company has been actively participating in the scientific activities in the region, contributing to the knowledge of southern ecosystems and the monitoring of Patagonian toothfish populations.
Tthe fishery was assessed by an independent certification body (Global Trust Certification Ltd), against the MSC Sustainable Fishing Standard. Assessment results confirm that stocks of Patagonian toothfish in Kerguelen and Crozet are healthy , based on independent scientific data and robust monitoring, while impacts on ecosystems and other species are controlled, with strict measures in place to avoid interactions with protected species and preserve vulnerable habitats.
Longlines are set at night, and deterrent devices are used to prevent the accidental capture of seabirds. A protocol for avoiding orcas and other marine mammals is in effect.
The fishery is effectively managed by the TAAF administration through a management plan that strictly regulates minimum size, quotas, and other parameters, and complies with CCAMLR regulations and protocols.
‘This certification rewards the exceptional level of standards of our teams and our deep commitment to sustainable French fishing. Patagonian toothfish deserves to shine in national gastronomy as much as it already shines internationally,” said Reunimer Group president Sébastien Camus.
Two areas for improvement have been identified to ensure the fishery retains its certification. These are catch control rules put in place by the French Southern and Antarctic Lands (TAAF) which need to be better defined and tested to effectively limit fishing pressure on the Kerguelen and Crozet stocks, and scientific methodology used for assessing stock status must also be adapted to be fully consistent with these control rules.
‘Obtaining this label highlights the commitment of Reunion Pêche Australe to adopting sustainable fishing practices, in a process of continuous improvement. It is a strong signal for the preservation of southern ecosystems and for consumers demanding sustainable seafood,’ said Alexandra Maufroy, Fisheries Manager of MSC France.
