Palau joins Global Fishing Watch
Global Fishing Watch has welcomed a new partner in its push for sustainable and transparent fisheries management.
Pacific island nation, Palau joins Papua New Guinea and the Marshall Islands in agreeing to share its vessel tracking data through the independent Fisheries Information Management System.
“By making our vessel tracking data publicly available on the Global Fishing Watch map, we hope to increase transparency and accountability of fishing activities in our waters,” said the Honourable Steven Victor, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries, and the Environment, Palau.
“This can drive sustainability of our resources and contribute to reducing illegal activities in our ocean.”
The Pacific is home to the planet’s most productive tuna fisheries, producing over half of the global tuna catch, estimated to be worth about US$26 billion each year. Palau’s exclusive economic zone spans more than 600,000 square kilometres of this rich ground.
Under the partnership, Global Fishing Watch will provide analytical support based on the examination of vessel behaviours, fleet patterns, and trends associated with port inspections, licensing and enforcement efforts.
This information will help Palau to further develop its national fisheries policy and marine spatial plans, and strengthen its regional and international influence.
As a member of the Pacific Island Forum Fisheries Agency, the Parties to the Nauru Agreement, and the Western & Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, Palau is a leading voice on ocean protections.
“Palau has consistently demonstrated leadership in marine conservation and fisheries management,” said Tony Long, chief executive of Global Fishing Watch. “This partnership underscores our mutual commitment to combating illegal fishing while also signalling transparency as a powerful tool in driving responsible fishing practices.”
