Resource Use and Management of Bigeye Tuna in the Indian Ocean: Quota Scheme in Thailand
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Abstract
Bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) is economically vital in the Indian Ocean, targeted extensively for commercial fishing. Research using a blend of quantitative and qualitative Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) data from 1950 to 2021 uncovered insights. Around 35 countries participated in Indian Ocean bigeye tuna fishing, annually yielding 21 to 162,220 t over the study period. Yet, since 1999, catches dwindled, dipping below 100,000 t from 2014 to 2021. The highest quantity of bigeye tuna captured in the Indian Ocean during this period was by longliners under the flag of Taiwan, Province of China, accounting for 24.08% of the total catch. Thailand's catch, by contrast, accounted for 14,676 t (0.30%) and came from purse seines and longlines. The Western Indian Ocean was the primary fishing ground for bigeye tuna, followed by the Eastern Indian Ocean. However, the stock of bigeye tuna is currently overfished and subject to overfishing, with 2021 catches amounting to 95,400 t, representing a 5% increase from 2020. To address this issue, an allocation based on the catch during 2012–2016 was recommended for Contracting Parties and Cooperating Non-Contracting Parties. A conceptual model has been created to ensure bigeye tuna sustainability through four processes: apply management regulations, recommend total allocation catch (TAC) for 2024–2025, control actual catch, and revisit/readjust TAC if needed. The model promotes long-term sustainability. To ensure compliance with IOTC Conservation and Management Measures for bigeye tuna, Thailand must align national law with the IOTC Resolution, notably Royal Ordinance on Fisheries B.E. 2558 (2015) and its B.E. 2560 (2017) amendment. This legal synchronization is crucial, especially for quota transfers and chartering.
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