Two tuna-conservation organizations have accused 32 countries of hindering the fight against illegal, unregulated, and unreported fishing (IUU).
The Global Tuna Alliance (GTA) and Tuna Protection Alliance (TUPA) have, in two joint letters, said the failure by 32 governments to ratify the 2012 Cape Town Agreement (CTA) is complicating efforts to battle illegal fishing. At least 18 nations have yet to sign the agreement, and another 14 have signed but have yet to complete its ratification and implement standards mandated by the agreement, they said.
The 2012 Cape Town Agreement, which has already been adopted by the International Maritime Organization, outlines fishing vessel standards and includes other regulations designed to protect the safety of crews and observers and provide a level playing field for all participants in the industry. It aims to include fishing vessels and their crews in international maritime regulations, such as safety certifications or working condition inspections. Without that ability, exploitative practices can go undetected, according to the two organizations.
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https://www.seafoodsource.com/news/environment-sustainability/global-tuna-alliance-criticizes-32-countries-for-hampering-fight-against-iuu