29 December 2014: Implementing port State measures is critical for ensuring the sustainability of the world’s tuna resources, according to the Areas Beyond National Jurisdiction (ABNJ) Tuna Project. The project is preparing a publication that highlights the role of port State measures in addressing illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in both national jurisdictions and the high seas.

‘Port State Measures and National Legislation: A Guide for Implementation,’ will provide a legislative template for use by port States and regional fisheries management organizations (RFMOs). It will include model legislation on requirements such as inspections, reporting and denial of entry into port or use of port, based on evidence of IUU fishing, as well as information on vessel operators’ duty and inspectors’ authority. The report’s framework is based on the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN’s (FAO) 2009 Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate IUU Fishing.

The ABNJ Tuna Project is one of the Common Oceans Program’s four areas of work. The Global Environment Facility (GEF) supports the program. [FAO Press Release] [Common Oceans Press Release] [Project Website]