Recent updates and notes from CCSBT 33:
- This year saw an update to the stock assessment which indicates that the Southern Bluefin Tuna (SBT) stock is currently estimated to be 28% (21-37%) of initial Total Reproductive Output (TRO0). The previous stock assessment conducted in 2023 estimated the stock to be at 23% (21-29%) of TRO0. Projections indicate that the management procedure rebuilding target (50% probability of being greater than 30% TRO0 by 2035) will be reached earlier than planned (i.e. by 2028).
- The Extended Commission (EC) agreed to a global Total Allowable Catch (TAC) of Southern Bluefin Tuna of 23,647 tonnes for 2027-2029, noting the advice from the Extended Scientific Committee that the high CPUE estimate for 2025 constitutes exceptional circumstances. The ESC noted the positive CPUE trend and agreed that the risks to the stock are low. The ESC consequently agreed not to amend its previous advice of 23,647 tonnes for the 2027-2029 TAC block.
- Members agreed on the TAC allocations for the 2027–2029 quota block, as well as the associated arrangements, including amendments to the Allocation Resolution and the Limited Carry‑Forward Resolution.
- Members reviewed the implementation of the updated CCSBT Compliance Plan, which provides an effective framework to improve compliance with CCSBT obligations, and adopted the updated Compliance Action Plan.
- Members adopted the revised Transhipment resolution, including a one-year extension to the Indonesian At-sea Transhipment trial using its national observers to 31 October 2027. Members also agreed to a defined scope to progress transhipment data sharing with WCPFC, consistent the existing Transhipment Memorandum of Cooperation between the two organisations.
- CCSBT 33 agreed to the recommendation from ERSWG to assess thirteen seabird species as priority species based on the relative impacts of CCSBT Member longline fisheries on those species.
- The meeting also agreed to define high-risk areas using a 50% risk threshold as a starting point that will be reviewed in the future.
- Members also offered general support for the toolbox approach for additional management measures in high-risk areas which was recommended by the ERSWG but opted to initially make its use voluntary and to further discuss technical elements of the proposal at ERSTech in 2027.
- Members have committed to a review of the Multi-Year Seabird Strategy to begin in 2027.
- Members confirmed the implementation date for converting the existing Catch Documentation Scheme to an electronic system as of 1 April 2027.
- Terms of Reference for the live streaming of future meetings were adopted.
- Members agreed for a process and timeline for the next Independent Performance Review, which will begin in 2027.
Members agreed for the Secretariat to collaborate with the ACAP Secretariat in 2027 to renew the existing Memorandum of Understanding.
REWARDS - CCSBT tagging program
A REWARD will be provided for each SBT tag returned to the CCSBT. Two tags have been placed in most SBT. A reward will be provided for each of these tags, so please return both tags if they are present. For more information, please send an e-mail to tags@ccsbt.org.
