تونة

Initial Audit Report

CAR Initial

Initial Audit Report

CAR Initial

CAR Recertification

Recertification audit report

Surveillance Audit Report

CAR Surveillance

audit report

Basic description of the fleet/fishery

Fishery client: Indústrias Alimentícias Leal Santos Ltda.

Fishing area: FAO 41; Atlantic, Southwest.

Fishing vessels: The Company has a fleet of 7 vessels.

Vessels audited on site as fleet samples: 4610036771; 4610037033.

Fishing method: Pole and Line.

Certified species: scientific name / common name

Katsuwonus pelamis / Skipjack Tuna, Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin Tuna, Thunnus alalunga / Albacore

 

Management summary

The Fisheries Secretary regulates the fisheries in Brazil, issuing fishing permits, fishing seasons, fishing quotas (when applicable) and registering the companies. The fishing vessels are real time monitored. Important scientific sources are available to direct fisheries management, such as data from Infofish, Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT). In addition, Leal Santos has an agreement with the Federal University of Rio Grande (FURG) in which the company provides data on its fisheries and the University conducts research studies that are used as guidelines.

 

Stock status summary

According to the most recent ICCAT stock assessments, the stocks of the three species are not overexploited and overfished. ICCAT recommendations are taken into consideration by the management of the company.

Bycatch / discards

Pole and line is used from 5 up 90 miles from the coast, with very low impact, since it is a selective fishing method. Bycatch, whenever occurs, is recorded in the logbooks and unloading reports.

 

Habitat Impact 

Pole and line is a selective fishing method, which causes low impact on ecosystem. In addition, the purse seine fishing, which is done to capture baits, is performed in deep oceanic areas without touching the seabed.

 

Social Accountability performance

The fleet complies with the human rights and Brazilian labour regulations.

 

Conclusion with reasons for approval

The fleet complies with Friend of the Sea requirements, without any non-conformities.

Initial Audit Report

Basic description of the fleet/fishery

Fishery client: TROPIC FISHERY (PVT) LTD, Sri Lanka.

Fishing area: FAO 57, Indian Ocean.

Fishing vessels: The Company has a fleet of 16 vessels.

Vessels audited remotely: Li-IMUL-A-0036CBO; Li-IMUL-A-0046MTR; Li-IMUL-A-0068TCO; Li-IMUL-A-0098MTR.

Fishing method: Long line.

Certified species: scientific name / common name

Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin Tuna (YFT), Thunnus obesus / Bigeye Tuna (BET)

 

Management summary

The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources Development (MFARD) is the agency that manage fisheries in Sri Lanka. Fisheries activities are planned, administrated and monitored under the guidance of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR). In addition, the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC), an intergovernmental organisation, is responsible for the management of tuna and tuna-like species in the Indian Ocean. Fisheries management organisations are held annually, along with intermittent meetings with the scientific committee meeting, technical committee meeting and compliance committee meeting.

 

Stock status summary

The stock of both species are managed by IOTC. Most of Sri Lanka’s fishing vessels are artisanal (<24m) and the organisation buys 100% of its purchase (YEF and BET) from these small fishing vessels. According to the IOTC Executive summary on YFT, the average catch of Sri Lanka’s main fleet is 9%. Likewise, according to the IOTC Executive summary on BET, the stock is not overfished and not subject to overfishing. 

 

Bycatch / discards

The fishing gear used is the Deep-set Long line, which reduces the by-catch percentage. The logbook is used in all vessels and data are available on the DFAR and IOTC website. Evidence of minimal by-catch (targeted as incidental catch; there is no records of turtles and sharks). All fish caught, including by-catch and discards, are used for human consumption.

 

Habitat Impact 

Currently, encouraged by government actions to reduce gill net fishing, most of the fishing are done by Long line. This fishing method has been selected so that the endangered species is not caught (> 100m depth Longline Deep-set). No degradation of seabed.

 

Social Accountability performance

The fleet complies with the human rights and Srilankan regulations.

 

Conclusion with reasons for approval

The fleet complies with Friend of the Sea requirements, without any major non-conformities.

audit report

Corrective Actions

Basic description of the fleet/fishery

Fishery client: Panofi Company Limited, Ghana.

Fishing area: FAO 34, Atlantic Eastern Central.

Fishing vessels: The Company has a fleet of 8 vessels.

Vessels audited: Panofi Discoverer AFT 94, Panofi Master AFT 76, Panofi Fore Runner AFT 95

Fishing method: Purse Seine.

Certified species: scientific name / common name

Yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) YFT, Skipjack tuna (Katsuwonus pelamis) SKJ, Bigeye tuna (Thunnus obesus) BET

Management summary

The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) is the competent regional organization for fisheries management in the region (FAO area 34), responsible for the conservation and management of tuna and tuna-like species in the Atlantic Ocean. The stocks are assessed by the Standing Committee on Research and Statistics (SCRS) which makes recommendations to ICCAT.

Stock status summary

The stock of the certified species is managed by ICCAT. The stock of the species can be certified because they are neither overexploited nor overfished.

 

Bycatch/discards

The captain of the vessel has already formed lists of prohibited species, and always tries to return species caught accidentally to survival. The fishing log contains all the information (accidental fishing, discard, etc), the percentage of discard is still negligible given the strong demand for fish by the market local does not exceed 1%.

Onboard observer reports are communicated to the authority in a way official also assistance at the time of unloading allows for confirming all information in the fishing log.

Habitat Impact 

Seine fishing does not affect the sea bottom always in full water, the maximum depth is 180 m.

 

Social Accountability performance

The fleet complies with human rights and Ghanaian regulations.

 

Conclusion with reasons for approval

The fleet complies with Friend of the Sea requirements, without any major non-conformities.

audit report

YF, BE, SJ Tuna – Purse seine & Long line fleets – FAO 34

Species: Thunnus albacares, Thunnus obesus, Katsuwonus pelamis

Gear type: Purse seine, long line
Fishing Area: FAO Area 34, Atlantic Eastern Central

Fishery management: The International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) is the competent regional organisation for fisheries management in the region (FAO area 34), responsible for the conservation and management of tuna and tuna-like species in the Atlantic Ocean. The stocks are assessed by the Standing Committee on Research and Statistics (SCRS) who makes recommendations to ICCAT.

Stock Status: According to the ICCAT (2015), the stock of bigeye tuna (BE) is estimated to be overfished and overfishing is occurring. The ratio of F₂₀₁₄/F_MSY was estimated at 1.28. Estimates of F_current/F_MSY from the model ranged from 0.62 to 1.85. The ratio of spawning biomass B₂₀₁₄/B_MSY was estimated at 0.67. Estimates of B_current/B_MSY from the model ranged from 0.48 to 1.20. The estimate of MSY is 78,800 tonnes (range: 67,700 to 85,000 tonnes). MSY has been reduced considerably through harvest of small bigeye. Current catches (79,600 tonnes) are above MSY.

The most recent full assessment of yellowfin tuna (YF) was carried out by SCRS in 2016. The ratio of F₂₀₁₄/F_MSY is estimated at 0.77 (range 0.53-1.05), indicating that overfishing is not occurring. The (2014) ratio of spawning biomass Bcurrent/BMSY is estimated at 0.95 (range 0.71-1.36). This indicates that the stock in 2014 is in a slightly overfished state. The SCRS notes that the two main groups (clusters) of abundance indicators used in the models show conflicting trends in the last few years: An increasing trend in biomass with one, and a constant relative abundance since 1990 with the other. The estimate of MSY is 126,300 tonnes (range 119,100-151,300). MSY is lower than in previous decades because the overall fishery selectivity has shifted towards smaller yellowfin, mainly through fishing on FADs. Current catch (108,900 t) is below MSY.

The stock of skipjack tuna (SJ) was assessed by SCRS in 2014, using data up to 2013. The ratio of Fcurrent/FMSY is likely below 1.0, indicating that overfishing is not occurring. The ratio of spawning biomass Bcurrent/BMSY is likely above 1.0, indicating that the stock is not in an overfished state. The value of MSY is probably higher than previously estimated (143,000-170,000 tonnes).

Habitat impact: The fishing gears used (i.e. pole and line and purse seine) do not interact with the seabed, hence the fishing activities do not damage the marine habitat.

Bycatch and discards: Accidental catches are very rare and include blue runner, trigger fish, wahoo, barracuda and marlin. These are released alive when possible otherwise bycatch is recorded on logbooks.

Discards are less than 0.1% of the total catch.

References:

ICCAT https://www.iccat.int/en/

ISSF. 2016. ISSF Tuna Stock Status Update, 2016: Status of the world fisheries for tuna. ISSF Technical Report 2016-05B. International Seafood Sustainability Foundation, Washington, D.C., USA.

Initial Audit Report

CAR 1

CAR 2

CAR 3

CAR 4

Initial Audit Report

CAR Initial

Surveillance Audit Report

Car Surveillance

Recertification audit

Surveillance

Recertification audit

John Sea Foods Pvt Ltd.

 

Fishery client

John Sea Foods Pvt Ltd

Sri Lanka.

 

Fishing area

FAO Fishing Areas 51 and 57

 

Fishing vessels

Vessels inspected as a representative sample: IMUL-A-0359 CHW, IMUL-A-0724 NBO, IMUL-A-0808 CHW and IMUL-A-2135 MTR.

 

Fishing method

Long line.

 

Certified species: Scientific name / Common name

Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin tuna
Xiphias gladius / Swordfish

 

Management summary

The stocks are managed regionally by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and nationally by the Sri Lankan Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR), with support from the Ministry of Fisheries and NARA. Management includes scientific stock assessments, the precautionary approach, conservation and management measures for target and non-target species, rebuilding measures, biological reference points, vessel licensing, catch and effort reporting, mandatory logbooks, VMS and AIS monitoring, vessel and port inspections, controls against IUU fishing and monitoring of Marine Protected Areas. IOTC measures are periodically reviewed and adjusted based on updated scientific information. John Sea Foods sources from vessels under 24 metres; therefore, onboard observers are not required, and VMS, AIS and departure and arrival inspections are used as alternative monitoring measures. The Sri Lankan tuna longline fishery also participates in a fishery improvement initiative intended to strengthen its biological, ecological and management performance.

 

 

Stock status summary

Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna and swordfish are classified as not overfished and not subject to overfishing. The 2024 yellowfin tuna assessment estimated SB2022/SBMSY at 1.37, with an 89% probability that the stock was in the healthy zone of the Kobe plot. For swordfish, median spawning biomass in 2021 was estimated at 1.39 times the level required to support MSY, while fishing mortality was estimated at 60% of FMSY. Swordfish catch in 2021 was 23,237 tonnes, below the estimated MSY of 29,856 tonnes.

Bycatch/discards

Bycatch information is recorded in vessel logbooks, collected when fish are received at the processing facility and checked during harbour controls before unloading. Bycatch and discard information is reported under DFAR and IOTC requirements. Retained bycatch is used for human consumption or for fishmeal and fish oil production. No discarded species were identified in the reviewed records, and discards were stated to be below 8% of total catch.

 

Habitat impact

Pelagic longline gear operates in the water column and does not normally contact the seabed, so direct impacts on benthic habitats are considered negligible. John Sea Foods sources only fish caught by longline vessels and verifies the fishing gear used through random inspections of registered vessels. Compliance with Marine Protected Area regulations is monitored through logbook coordinates, GPS, VMS and the Fisheries Monitoring Centre. The Sri Lankan longline fishery improvement initiative also includes measures intended to improve the biological and ecological status of the fishery and reduce impacts on non-target species and the wider pelagic ecosystem.

 

Social accountability performance

The company complies with Sri Lankan labour legislation and relevant ILO principles and has 135 employees. Employee salaries were above the national minimum wage of LKR 27,000 stated in the supporting information. Workers are covered by workers’ compensation and accident insurance and receive 14 days of sick leave per year. Occupational health and safety measures include PPE, first-aid equipment, fire extinguishers, first-aid training, fire drills and accident records. Freedom of association and collective bargaining are recognised, while forced labour, discrimination, abuse and harassment are prohibited. Living cabins on board were clean, spacious and in good condition.

audit report

Corrective Actions

Philippines-Yellowfin tuna – Hand line – FAO 71

Species: Thunnus albacares
Gear type: Hand line
Fishing Area: FAO Area 71 Pacific Southwest

Fishery management: The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) is the competent regional organisation for fisheries management in the region (FAO Statistical Area 71). WCP Ocean stocks are assessed by the Secretariat of the Pacific Communities and the results are reviewed by the scientific committee, which makes recommendations to the WCPFC.

The Philippines Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) also conducts stock assessment studies through the National Stock Assessment Program and releases annual fishery data through the Philippines Fisheries Profile.

The Philippines, as a member of the WCPFC, adheres to conservation and management measures in mitigating the impacts of tuna fishing on non-target species and prohibition of fishing on data buoys.

Stock status: The Western and Central Pacific yellowfin tuna stock is not overfished and overfishing is not occurring, based on 2016 data.

The latest (2012) estimates of spawning biomass for yellowfin tuna are above the level that supports MSY. Current (2015) catches are below MSY and overfishing is not occurring.

Habitat impact: The fleet uses pelagic hand lines that do not interact with the seabed and the benthic communities, hence its impact on the habitat is not significant.

Bycatch: Hand line is a highly selective gear with negligible bycatch. Accidental bycatch consists in marine mammals, turtles, dolphins and sharks. These are considered illegal catch and are returned to the sea when caught. Furthermore, hand line fishing uses barbless hooks that allow accidentally caught animals to have a higher chance of survival when returned at sea.

Hand line tuna fishery in the Philippines catches about 15% of non-target species including marlin, swordfish and sailfish that have economic value and are not discarded.

Discards: Discards are reported at landing by individual boat owners. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, through the National Stock Assessment Program, collects landings data for the National Statistics and fisheries management and to be integrated into the catch report submitted to WCPFC as part of the obligation of the Philippines as member of the Commission.

Discards in hand line tuna fishing is negligible (<1% of the total catch) as most of accidental bycatch is sold to the local market for human consumption.

References

ISSF. 2016. ISSF Tuna Stock Status Update, 2016: Status of the world fisheries for tuna. ISSF Technical Report 2016-05B. International Seafood Sustainability Foundation, Washington, D.C., USA.

WCPFC. 2016. Executive Summary of the Twelfth regular session of the Scientific Committee. Bali, Indonesia, 3-11 August 2016.

WCPFC. 2016b. Estimates of annual catches in the WCPFC statistical area. Document WCPFC-SC12-2016/ST IP-01.

Corrective Action

Recertification audit

Corrective Action

Surveillance

Recertification audit

Corrective Action

Fishery client

Big Fish Maldives Pvt Ltd.

 

Fishing area

FAO Fishing Area 51, including waters under the jurisdiction of the Maldives.

 

Fishing vessels

AARAASTHA (P6976B-01-07-A), AILAA 2 (P3554B-01-17-B), ARAAKURI (P5586B-01-07-A), ARRATHARI (P3726B-01-07-A), AZURO (P8869A-01-01-M), FAHIMAGU 1 (P5268B-01-15-B), FARIDHUVALI-4 (P8277A-01-01-L), MALAAHA 2 (P8184A-01-02-G), RANTHARI 1 (P8800A-01-04-I), THREERODHI (C5790B-01-13-D), TUNA 2 (P9044A-01-04-I), VENUS 5 (P6748B-01-05-H) and ZAHAB1 (P3193B-01-02-I).

 

Fishing method

Pole-and-line and Handline.

 

Certified species: Scientific name / Common name

Katsuwonus pelamis / Skipjack tuna
Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin tuna

 

Management summary

The fishery is managed nationally by the Maldives Ministry of Fisheries and its competent authorities under Maldivian fisheries legislation, and regionally through the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC). Management measures include vessel licensing, catch logbooks, reporting of catch and interactions with protected species, monitoring of fishing positions and Marine Protected Areas, IUU controls, and periodic scientific, technical and compliance meetings. Big Fish Maldives purchases only from pole-and-line and handline vessels and verifies vessel licences and fishing records when fish is received.

 

Stock status summary

According to the IOTC assessment information, Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna was assessed as not overfished and not subject to overfishing. The 2024 assessment estimated fishing mortality below FMSY, with F2023/FMSY equal to 0.75, and an 89% probability that the stock was in the green Kobe quadrant. For skipjack tuna, the advice is based on the 2023 assessment using data through 2022. Spawning biomass was estimated above the target and limit reference points and above SBMSY, while fishing mortality remained below FMSY.

 

Bycatch/discards

Catch and bycatch information is recorded in vessel logbooks and daily fishing-trip records, including interactions with ETP species, sharks and manta rays, and whether incidental catch is released dead or alive. Turtles and sharks were not recorded in the sampled catch, bycatch and discards were below 8% of the total catch by weight and that retained incidental catch may be processed or used for products such as fishmeal or fish oil.

 

Habitat impact

Pole-and-line and handline are pelagic fishing methods that do not normally contact the seabed; therefore, direct impact on benthic habitats its consider to be insignificant. Vessel logbooks and fishing positions were reviewed against Maldivian Marine Protected Areas, and the report states that the sampled vessels complied with protected-area requirements. Maldivian regulations also protect sharks, whale sharks, sea turtles and coral reefs.

 

Social accountability performance

The audit reports 107 employees and compliance with Maldivian labour requirements and relevant ILO principles. It verified controls concerning child labour, worker remuneration and profit sharing for vessel crews, access to medical care and insurance, first-aid arrangements, annual medical checks, PPE, firefighting and first-aid training, lifebuoys, accident records, freedom of association, absence of forced labour and discrimination, and minimum working age controls. The vessels were reported to be adequately maintained, with boat hygiene records and government and exporter supervision.

audit report

Corrective Actions

Philippines-Yellowfin tuna – Hand line – FAO 71

Species: Thunnus albacares
Gear type: Hand line
Fishing Area: FAO Area 71 Pacific Southwest

Fishery management: The Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC) is the competent regional organisation for fisheries management in the region (FAO Statistical Area 71). WCP Ocean stocks are assessed by the Secretariat of the Pacific Communities and the results are reviewed by the scientific committee, which makes recommendations to the WCPFC.

The Philippines Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) also conducts stock assessment studies through the National Stock Assessment Program and releases annual fishery data through the Philippines Fisheries Profile.

The Philippines, as a member of the WCPFC, adheres to conservation and management measures in mitigating the impacts of tuna fishing on non-target species and prohibition of fishing on data buoys.

Stock status: The Western and Central Pacific yellowfin tuna stock is not overfished and overfishing is not occurring, based on 2016 data.

The latest (2012) estimates of spawning biomass for yellowfin tuna are above the level that supports MSY. Current (2015) catches are below MSY and overfishing is not occurring.

Habitat impact: The fleet uses pelagic hand lines that do not interact with the seabed and the benthic communities, hence its impact on the habitat is not significant.

Bycatch: Hand line is a highly selective gear with negligible bycatch. Accidental bycatch consists in marine mammals, turtles, dolphins and sharks. These are considered illegal catch and are returned to the sea when caught. Furthermore, hand line fishing uses barbless hooks that allow accidentally caught animals to have a higher chance of survival when returned at sea.

Hand line tuna fishery in the Philippines catches about 15% of non-target species including marlin, swordfish and sailfish that have economic value and are not discarded.

Discards: Discards are reported at landing by individual boat owners. The Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, through the National Stock Assessment Program, collects landings data for the National Statistics and fisheries management and to be integrated into the catch report submitted to WCPFC as part of the obligation of the Philippines as member of the Commission.

Discards in hand line tuna fishing is negligible (<1% of the total catch) as most of accidental bycatch is sold to the local market for human consumption.

References

ISSF. 2016. ISSF Tuna Stock Status Update, 2016: Status of the world fisheries for tuna. ISSF Technical Report 2016-05B. International Seafood Sustainability Foundation, Washington, D.C., USA.

WCPFC. 2016. Executive Summary of the Twelfth regular session of the Scientific Committee. Bali, Indonesia, 3-11 August 2016.

WCPFC. 2016b. Estimates of annual catches in the WCPFC statistical area. Document WCPFC-SC12-2016/ST IP-01.

Initial Audit Report

Surveillance Audit Report

Recertification audit report

audit report

Ecuador – Tuna – Purse seine & Long line fleets – FAO 87

Species: Thunnus albacares, Thunnus obesus, Katsuwonus pelamis, Thunnus alalunga
Gear type: Purse seine, long line
Fishing Area: FAO Area 87 Pacific Southeast

Fishery management: The Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) is the competent regional organisation for fisheries management in the region (FAO area 87), responsible for the conservation and management of tuna and other marine resources in the Eastern Pacific Ocean (EPO). EPO stocks are assessed by the IATTC staff, who makes recommendations to the IATTC. The Scientific Advisory Committee can also make recommendations to the IATTC.

Stock Status:

According to the IATTC, the fishing mortality rate for Skipjack and Bigeye stock is below FMSY. For the Yellowfin tuna, the fishing effort is estimated to be below the level that would support the MSY. Skipjack and bigeye biomasses are above BMSY. There is uncertainty about recent levels of recruitment and biomass of yellowfin tuna, although it is estimated that, if fishing effort is maintained at the present levels, both spawning biomass and catches are predicted to increase.

According to the most recent stock assessment (2012), the fishing mortality reference point for albacore tuna in the South Pacific is estimated to be at low risk of overfishing. The total biomass has been reduced to around 82% (62%–93%) of unfished levels, while the spawning biomass (mature females) has been reduced to 63% (35%–80%) of unfished levels. Both of these are considered moderate levels of depletion. The ratios of the current total biomass and spawning biomass to that needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (Bcurrent/BMSY = 1.6 (1.4–1.9) and SBcurrent/SBMSY = 2.6 (1.5-5.2)) are both above 1.

Bycatch: The fleet follows procedures to prevent bycatch of endangered species. Endangered species accidentally caught are released alive. Independent monitors operate onboard each approved vessel.

The most commonly bycaught species by purse seiners and longliners are mahi mahi (Coryphaena hyppurus), swordfish (Xiphias gladius), and blue shark (Prionace glauca).

According to the most  updated assessment (2014), the fishing mortality rate of blue shark was around 34% of that needed to produce the maximum sustainable yield (ISC 2014b). Therefore overfishing is not occurring.

Fishing mortality rates for mahi mahi in the EPO are not known, but the IATTC is in the beginning stages of assessing them. IUCN does not consider there to be any major threats to mahi mahi from commercial fishing (College et al. 2011). Preliminary analysis for the planned assessment of mahi mahi in the EPO shows variable but somewhat steady catch per unit effort trends in abundance (IATTC 2013).

Swordfish stocks are healthy in the northeastern Pacific and southeastern Pacific, as the stocks are not overfished and overfishing is not occurring and biomass is greater than the biomass at which maximum sustainable yield is produced.

References:

IATTC, Stock Assessment Report 16 https://www.iattc.org/StockAssessmentReports/StockAssessmentReport16ENG.htm

ISSF. 2016. ISSF Tuna Stock Status Update, 2016: Status of the world fisheries for tuna. ISSF Technical Report 2016-05B. International Seafood Sustainability Foundation, Washington, D.C., USA.

IATTC SCIENTIFIC ADVISORY COMMITTEE 2ND MEETING La Jolla, California (USA) 9-12 May 2011  Michael G. Hinton and Mark N. Maunder.

audit report

Corrective Actions

Sapmer-YF, BE, SJ tuna-Purse seine-FAO 51,57

Company Requesting the Audit: Sapmer

Approved Target Species: Thunnus albacares, Katsuwonus pelamis, Thunnus obesus

Fishing Method: Purse seine

Fishing Area: FAO 51 and 57

 

Stock Status: Yellowfin, Skipjack and Bigeye tuna are all considered Not Overexploited by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission http://www.iotc.org/files/proceedings/2011/sc/IOTC-2011-WPTT13-R[E].pdf

 

Discard: Level of discard is much less than 8% and bycaught species are not listed in the IUCN Redlist as vulnerable or worse

 

Habitat Impact: Fishing methods do not impact the seabed or critical habitat.

Video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5zQl_QNyfa0&feature=youtu.be

Initial Audit Report

Recertification audit report

audit report

Fishery client: Lung Soon Fishery Co. Ltd.

Fishing area: FAO Areas 61 – 71 – 77

Fishing vessels: CT7-0544 – IMO 9184005; CT7-0575 – IMO 8648614; CT7-0541 – IMO 9198147

Fishing method: Longline

Certified species: Scientific name / Common name

Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin tuna

Thunnus obesus / Bigeye tuna

Thunnus alalunga / Albacore tuna

Xiphias gladius / Swordfish

Management summary

The fishery is managed under the framework of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), the Regional Fisheries Management Organization responsible for the conservation and management of highly migratory fish stocks in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean.

The WCPFC fisheries management system is participatory and transparent. Management decisions are adopted during regular Commission meetings where member countries participate in discussions and decision-making processes.

The WCPFC Rules of Procedure define how Commission meetings are conducted, how members participate in decision-making, and how observers may attend meetings. The procedures allow participation from member states and accredited observer organizations, including stakeholders from the fishing industry and scientific community.

Meeting reports, conservation and management measures, and other relevant documents are publicly available through the WCPFC website, ensuring transparency and stakeholder participation in the fisheries management system.

Stock status summary

WCPFC has developed reports on the stock status of the audited species:

WCPO Yellowfin Tuna (Thunnus Albacares) – Stock Status And Management Advice (Sc19 2023 – Stock Assessment Conducted):

The stock is not experiencing overfishing and is not in an overfished condition.

WCPO Bigeye Tuna (Thunnus Obesus) – Stock Status And Management Advice (Sc19 2023 – Stock Assessment Conducted): The stock is very likely not experiencing overfishing and is not in an overfished condition.

WCPO Albacore Tuna (Thunnus Alalunga) – Stock Status And Management Advice (Sc19 2023 – Stock Assessment Conducted):

The stock is likely not overfished and is likely not experiencing overfishing.

WCPO swordfish (Xiphias gladius) – stock status and management advice (sc19 2023 – stock assessment conducted):

For the stock, overfishing is very likely not occurring, and the NP SWO stock is very likely not overfished.

Bycatch/discards

The use of circle hooks is a measure to reduce the capture of non-target species (e.g., sea turtles, sharks) and to minimize discards.

The auditor viewed Conservation and Management Measures (CMMs) and Resolutions of the Western Central Pacific Fisheries Commission (WCPFC), which contain management measures regarding bycatch.

The fishing vessels record catch, bycatch and discard information for each fishing trip through logbooks and reporting systems required by the fisheries management authorities.

Habitat Impact 

Scientific data and information regarding ecosystem impacts of fisheries are collected and evaluated through international and national fisheries management systems.

Ecosystem assessments consider impacts on non-target species, Endangered, Threatened, and Protected (ETP) species, habitats, and food web interactions. These assessments are based on fisheries statistics, stock assessments, scientific research, and monitoring programs.

Relevant scientific methodologies and results are publicly available through international organizations such as FAO and national fisheries research institutions.

The certified fishing unit operates using pelagic longline fishing gear, which targets highly migratory tuna species in the open ocean.

This fishing method operates in the mid-water column and does not involve contact with the seabed. Therefore, the fishing gear used by the unit of certification does not cause physical damage to seabed habitats such as coral reefs, seamount ecosystems, or other vulnerable marine ecosystems (VMEs).

Social Accountability performance

The fleet complies with human rights and labour regulations.

Initial audit

Fishery client

Alex Sea Food (Pvt) Ltd,

Sri Lanka.

Fishing area

FAO Fishing Areas 51 and 57, including waters within the Sri Lankan Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).

Fishing vessels

IMUL-A-0732 CHW, IMUL-A-0750 NBO, IMUL-A-0758 NBO, IMUL-A-0974 CHW and IMUL-A-0804 CHW.

Fishing method

Pelagic longlines.

Certified species: Scientific name / Common name

Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin tuna
Xiphias gladius / Swordfish

Management summary

The stocks are managed regionally by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and nationally by the Sri Lankan Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR), with support from the Ministry of Fisheries and the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA). Management measures include vessel licensing, logbook and catch reporting, Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) control, monitoring of Marine Protected Areas.

Stock status summary

Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna and swordfish were not overfished and were not subject to overfishing. The 2024 yellowfin tuna assessment estimated spawning biomass above the level associated with maximum sustainable yield. For swordfish, biomass was estimated above BMSY and fishing mortality below FMSY. Possible localised depletion of swordfish in the south-western Indian Ocean should continue to be monitored.

 

Bycatch/discards

Bycatch information is recorded in vessel logbooks.  No IUCN-listed species were identified in the sampled accidental catch records, and discards were below 8% of the total catch. Retained bycatch is used for human consumption or for fishmeal and fish oil production.

Habitat impact

Pelagic longline gear operates in the water column and does not normally contact the seabed; therefore, direct impacts on benthic habitats and seabed communities are considered negligible. The company verifies the fishing gear used by registered vessels through documentation and random inspections. Compliance with Marine Protected Area regulations is monitored through GPS, VMS, fishing logbooks and the Sri Lankan Fisheries Monitoring Centre. Vessel positions and fishing activities are regularly reviewed to identify any potential entry into restricted or protected areas. Measures are also applied to monitor bycatch, reduce interactions with non-target species and minimise impacts on the wider pelagic ecosystem.

Social accountability performance

The company complies with Sri Lankan labour legislation, relevant ILO principles, and human rights requirements. Controls are in place for child and forced labour, discrimination, wages, insurance, sick leave, occupational health and safety, PPE, first aid, fire drills, accident records, freedom of association. The company had 24 employees

Initial audit

Surveillance

Fishery client

Blue Line Ocean (Pvt) Ltd

Fishing area

FAO Fishing Areas 51 and 57

Fishing vessels

vessels sampled: IMULA 0937 CHW and IMULA 0724 CHW.

Fishing method

Long line

Certified species: Scientific name / Common name

Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin tuna
Xiphias gladius / Swordfish

Management summary

The fishery is managed regionally by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and nationally by the Sri Lankan Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR), with support from the Ministry of Fisheries and the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA). Management measures include vessel registration and licensing, logbook and catch reporting, VMS and Fisheries Monitoring Centre controls, Marine Protected Area monitoring, IUU vessel checks, harbour inspections and implementation of IOTC Conservation and Management Measures. The Sri Lankan longline tuna fishery also participates in a fishery improvement initiative.

Stock status summary

According to the IOTC assessment information cited in the audit, Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna and swordfish were assessed as not overfished and not subject to overfishing. For yellowfin tuna, the audit relies on the 2024 assessment and notes that no new full assessment was completed in 2025; the stock was considered to be above the biomass reference level and fishing mortality below FMSY. For swordfish, the advice is based on the 2023 assessment, with biomass above BMSY and fishing mortality below FMSY.

Bycatch/discards

Bycatch information is recorded in vessel logbooks, which are collected when fish is received and were reviewed during the audit.  The audit states that no discarded species were observed in the reviewed logbooks and that discards were well below 8% of total catch. Retained bycatch may be used for human consumption, fishmeal or fish oil.

 

Habitat impact

Pelagic longline gear does not normally contact the seabed; therefore, the audit considers direct impacts on benthic habitats to be insignificant. Fishing positions and compliance with Marine Protected Areas are controlled through logbooks, GPS, VMS and the Sri Lankan Fisheries Monitoring Centre. The audit also refers to the Sri Lankan longline fishery improvement project, which aims to improve the biological and ecological performance of the fishery.

 

Social accountability performance

The audit reports 33 employees and compliance with Sri Lankan labour legislation and relevant ILO principles. It verified controls concerning child labour, salaries above the legal minimum, payslips, workers compensation and accident insurance, sick leave, occupational health and safety, PPE, fire extinguishers, first-aid boxes, first-aid training, fire drills and accident records. It also reported freedom of association, prohibition of forced labour and discrimination, and clean and adequate living conditions on board.

 

Initial audit

Surveillance

Recertification audit

Surveillance

Fishery client

East Globe Lanka Export Company,

Fishing area

FAO Fishing Areas 51 and 57

 

Fishing vessels

IMULA 0800 CHW was identified as the sampled vessel

 

Fishing method

Long line.

 

Certified species: Scientific name / Common name

Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin tuna
Xiphias gladius / Swordfish

 

Management summary

The fishery is managed regionally by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and nationally by the Sri Lankan Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR), with support from the Ministry of Fisheries and the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA). Management measures include vessel registration and licensing, logbook and catch reporting, VMS and Fisheries Monitoring Centre controls, Marine Protected Area monitoring, IUU vessel checks, harbour inspections and implementation of IOTC Conservation and Management Measures. The Sri Lankan longline tuna fishery also participates in a fishery improvement initiative.

 

Stock status summary

According to the IOTC information cited in the audit, Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna and swordfish were assessed as not overfished and not subject to overfishing. For yellowfin tuna, the audit relies on the 2024 assessment and notes that no new full assessment was completed in 2025; biomass was above the reference level and fishing mortality below FMSY. Swordfish advice is based on the 2023 assessment, with biomass above BMSY and fishing mortality below FMSY.  

Bycatch/discards

Bycatch information is recorded in vessel logbooks, which are collected when fish is received and were reviewed during the audit. The report states that no IUCN red-listed species were evident in the sampled accidental-catch records. No discarded species were observed in the reviewed logbooks and that discards were well below 8% of total catch. Retained bycatch may be used for human consumption, fishmeal or fish oil.

 

Habitat impact

Pelagic longline gear does not normally contact the seabed; therefore, the audit considers direct impacts on benthic habitats to be insignificant. Fishing positions and compliance with Marine Protected Areas are controlled through logbooks, GPS, VMS and the Sri Lankan Fisheries Monitoring Centre. The audit also refers to the Sri Lankan longline fishery improvement project, which aims to improve the biological and ecological performance of the fishery.

 

Social accountability performance

The audit reports 16 employees and compliance with Sri Lankan labour legislation and relevant ILO principles. It verified controls on child labour, salaries above the legal minimum, payslips, workers compensation and accident insurance, sick leave, occupational health and safety, PPE, fire extinguishers, first-aid equipment and training, fire drills and accident records. It also reported freedom of association, no forced labour or discrimination, and clean living conditions on board.

Initial audit

Fishery client

Eastbay International (Pvt) Ltd, Sri Lanka

Fishing area

FAO Fishing Areas 51 and 57.

Fishing vessels

The three vessels sampled during the audit: IMULA 0688 CHW, IMULA 0810 CHW and IMULA 0858 CHW.

Fishing method

Long line.

 

Certified species: Scientific name / Common name

Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin tuna
Xiphias gladius / Swordfish

 

Management summary

The stocks are managed regionally by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and nationally by the Sri Lankan Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR). The management system includes conservation and management measures, a precautionary approach, stock rebuilding provisions, catch and bycatch reporting, vessel monitoring, inspections and measures against illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing. DFAR uses VMS, vessel inspections and a Fisheries Crime Unit to support monitoring and enforcement.

 

Stock status summary

Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna is classified as not overfished and not subject to overfishing. Spawning biomass was estimated above SBMSY, with an 89% probability that the stock was in the healthy zone.

Swordfish is also classified as not overfished and not subject to overfishing. Spawning biomass was estimated at 1.39 times the level required to support MSY, while fishing mortality was estimated at 60% of FMSY.

 

Bycatch/discards

Bycatch information is recorded in vessel logbooks, which were reviewed during the audit and are checked before unloading. The audit states that no IUCN-listed species were identified in the sampled accidental-catch records, that no discarded species were observed in the records reviewed, and that discards were below 8% of total catch. Retained bycatch is used for human consumption or for fishmeal and fish oil production.

 

Habitat impact

Longline gear does not normally contact the seabed, and the audit considers direct impacts on benthic habitats to be insignificant. Compliance with Marine Protected Area regulations is monitored through vessel logbooks, GPS, VMS and the Fisheries Monitoring Centre. The Sri Lankan longline fishery also participates in a fishery improvement initiative intended to improve its biological and ecological performance.

 

Social accountability performance

The audit reports compliance with Sri Lankan labour legislation and relevant ILO principles. It verified controls on child labour, wages, workers’ compensation and accident insurance, sick leave, occupational health and safety, personal protective equipment, first aid, fire drills and accident records. It also reported freedom of association, no forced labour or discrimination, and acceptable living conditions on board. Pay slips were reviewed, and the company’s minimum salary was reported to be above LKR 65,000. The company had 24 employees at the time of the audit.

Initial audit

Surveillance

Recertification audit

Surveillance

Fishery client

Jay Sea Foods Processing (Pvt) Ltd

Sri Lanka.

 

Fishing area

FAO Fishing Areas 51 and 57

 

Fishing vessels

Vessels sampled during the on-site audit: IMUL-A-0723 CHW and IMUL-A-2091 NBO

 

Fishing method

Long line.

 

Certified species: Scientific name / Common name

Thunnus albacares / Yellowfin tuna
Xiphias gladius / Swordfish

 

Management summary

The stocks are managed regionally by the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) and nationally by the Sri Lankan Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (DFAR), with support from the Ministry of Fisheries and NARA. Sri Lanka is a founding member of the IOTC and contributes scientific, catch and fisheries-management information used to assess highly migratory stocks and update regional management advice.

Management measures include vessel licensing, logbook and catch reporting, VMS and AIS monitoring, port and coast-guard inspections, controls for Marine Protected Areas, checks against IUU vessel lists, biological reference points and rebuilding measures. The IOTC also adopts conservation and management measures for target and non-target species, including retention restrictions, safe-release practices, bycatch mitigation, improved data collection and research on sharks, rays, seabirds and other vulnerable species. Management advice and measures are periodically reviewed through IOTC scientific and commission meetings.

The Sri Lankan tuna and swordfish longline fishery also participates in a fishery improvement initiative intended to strengthen stock management, data collection, bycatch controls and compliance with national and regional requirements.

 

Stock status summary

Indian Ocean yellowfin tuna is classified as not overfished and not subject to overfishing. Spawning biomass in 2022 was estimated at 1.37 times SBMSY, with an 89% probability that the stock was in the healthy zone of the Kobe plot.

Swordfish is also classified as not overfished and not subject to overfishing. Spawning biomass in 2021 was estimated at 1.39 times BMSY, while fishing mortality was estimated at 60% of FMSY. Catch was also below the estimated MSY level. No new stock assessments were conducted in 2025; therefore, the 2024 yellowfin tuna assessment and the 2023 swordfish assessment remain the most recent available evaluations.

 

Bycatch/discards

Bycatch information is recorded in vessel logbooks in accordance with Sri Lankan DFAR and IOTC reporting requirements. Logbooks include fishing activity and incidental catches and are checked by the Coast Guard before unloading. Reported information is submitted to the IOTC, which compiles and publishes data on catches, fishing effort and species affected by tuna fisheries. No IUCN-listed species or discarded catches were identified in the sampled records, and discards were reported to be below 8% of total catch. Retained bycatch is used for human consumption or for fishmeal and fish oil production. Sri Lanka also applies measures to reduce accidental catches, including restrictions on endangered species and the National Plan of Action for the Conservation and Management of Sharks.

 

Habitat impact

Pelagic longline gear does not normally contact the seabed, so direct impacts on benthic habitats are considered negligible. The company verifies fishing gear through vessel inspections. Compliance with Marine Protected Area rules and fishing-area restrictions is monitored through GPS, VMS, the Fisheries Monitoring Centre and DFAR controls. The fishery improvement project also addresses the biological and ecological impacts of the Sri Lankan longline fishery.

 

Social accountability performance

Compliance with Sri Lankan labour legislation and relevant ILO principles. It verified controls concerning child labour, wages above the national legal minimum, workers’ compensation and accident insurance, sick leave, occupational health and safety procedures, personal protective equipment, first-aid equipment, fire drills and accident records. It also reported freedom of association, prohibition of forced labour and discrimination, and clean and suitable living conditions on board. The company had 75 employees at the time of the audit.