Peru Reaffirms Commitment to Science-Based Tuna Resource Management

Peru, represented by Vice Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture Jesus Barrientos, reaffirmed its commitment to science-based management of tuna resources in the Eastern Pacific Ocean. Peru actively participated in the 103rd Meeting of the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC), held in Panama City from September 1 to 5, where over 20 countries, international organizations, and experts gathered to discuss measures to guarantee the sustainability of tuna resources.

Key Takeaways:

• Peru emphasized the importance of strengthening fisheries science as the basis for decision-making, citing that only with solid scientific evidence can conservation measures be effective and ensure the ocean's continuation as a source of life and development for future generations.
• The Peruvian delegation supported and contributed to the development of relevant agreements, including the strengthening of electronic monitoring of fishing activity, ensuring conservation decisions are based on the best available scientific evidence, and promoting a balanced budget for the IATTC.
• Peru supported the proposal to form a working group to improve the sustainability of the mahi mahi resource, which will be multisectoral in nature and will systematize information, identify knowledge gaps, and establish research priorities.
• The IATTC Director was tasked with coordinating with member countries and managing external cooperation to finance the actions of the new working group, with the first report expected in 2026.
• The need to harmonize conservation measures for non-target species such as dorado with national regulations and other regional mechanisms was highlighted.
• Vice Minister Barrientos emphasized that Peru will continue to promote measures that integrate sustainability, equity, and fisheries justice, as only in this way can ecosystems be protected and a future guaranteed for fishing communities.

Statistics:

• Over 20 countries, international organizations, and experts participated in the 103rd Meeting of the IATTC.
• The IATTC has only one regional fisheries organization with its own high-level scientific team, ensuring its decisions are based on the best available science.
• Peru will continue to participate in the IATTC and work alongside the international community to ensure the sustainability of the tuna fishery and food security of millions of people.
• The working group on mahi mahi will present its first report in 2026.
• The group will hold regional technical workshops to consolidate scientific cooperation and the ecosystem approach to fisheries management.

Sources:

• "The Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) Meeting: Peru's Commitment to Science-Based Tuna Resource Management" (date not specified)
• "103rd Meeting of the IATTC" (no date mentioned in the original text)