The Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA) is a global treaty aimed at combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities. It requires participating countries to implement measures that prevent vessels engaged in IUU fishing from accessing their ports and markets. The agreement was adopted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) in 2009 and entered into force in June 2016.
IUU fishing is a serious global issue that threatens the sustainability of fish stocks and the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on them. It has been estimated that IUU fishing accounts for up to 26 million tonnes of fish caught annually, with a value of between $10 and $23 billion. This not only contributes to the depletion of fish stocks but also poses a significant threat to the economic and social development of coastal communities.
The PSMA provides a much-needed framework for combating IUU fishing by targeting the vessels involved in these activities. It requires participating countries to take a range of measures, including:
– Conducting regular inspections of foreign vessels that request access to their ports
– Refusing entry to vessels that are known to have engaged in IUU fishing
– Sharing information with other countries to prevent vessels engaged in IUU fishing from simply moving to another port
– Ensuring that vessels flying their flag do not engage in IUU fishing
These measures are essential for deterring IUU fishing activities and ensuring that the benefits of sustainable fisheries are shared equitably among all stakeholders.
The PSMA has received significant support from the international community, with over 60 countries now parties to the agreement. This includes major fishing nations such as China, Japan, and the European Union, as well as developing countries such as Ghana, Indonesia, and Senegal.
However, the success of the PSMA ultimately depends on the effective implementation of its measures. This requires cooperation and coordination among participating countries, as well as adequate resources to carry out inspections and enforcement activities.
In conclusion, the Port State Measures Agreement is a significant step towards combating IUU fishing and ensuring the sustainability of fish stocks and the livelihoods of coastal communities. Its implementation must continue to be a priority for all participating countries to achieve its intended goals.