The Azores tuna producers’ association, Pão-do-Mar, has become the first producers’ association to join the International Pole & Line Foundation (IPNLF), helping to strengthen the Atlantic tuna supply chain network.
Founded in 1984, Pão-do-Mar represents local tuna canneries of Santa Catarina, Cofaco, Corretora and Pescatum on the Azorean islands of São Miguel, Terceira, Pico and São Jorge.
A spokesperson at Pão-do-Mar, said: “For over 20 years, Pão-do-Mar has been representing the interests of our local canneries, to ensure that they are represented and that the livelihoods and cultural values of the communities connected to them are protected. We embrace the opportunity to work with IPNLF to internationalise the fisheries and fish workers of the Azores.”
Adam Baske, IPNLF director for policy and outreach, added: “Over the past year, we have continued to enhance our engagement with the Azores one-by-one tuna fishery and this partnership highlights the growing collaboration with local stakeholders to strengthen and promote the highly selective tuna fisheries of the islands.”
“The Azores one-by-one tuna fishery is a critical part of local culture and economy, and a shining example of the benefits that a well-managed and effectively monitored fishery can deliver to fishing communities.”
Pão-do-Mar said it facilitates a culture of cooperation and solidarity and members source from local one-by-one caught tuna fisheries and produce premium products that are supplied to markets in Europe and the United States. These canneries also provide hundreds of jobs for local populations on the islands.
