Yellowfin tuna capture. (Photo: Luis Eustaquio/Copyright: FIS)
MEXICOTuesday, May 12, 2015, 22:00 (GMT + 9)
The Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, Rural Development, Fisheries and Food(SAGARPA) has launched a Fisheries Management Plan (PMP) for yellowfin tuna (Thunnus albacares) in the Gulf of Mexico, with the main objective of promoting management, conservation, protection and restocking of this tuna species.
In Mexico, fishing for yellowfin tuna is one of the most important ones at national level in terms of catch and income, as it represents an important source of food, direct and indirect employment, trade and economic welfare both regional and nationally.
The capture of this fish generates about MXN 1,200 million (USD 79.3 million) and its consumption is an important source of nutrients for people.
Participatory planning methods were used to formulate the plan and the proposals of the different actors involved directly and indirectly affecting the fishery were considered.
The plan was prepared by the National Fisheries Institute (INAPESCA) and will be operated by the National Committee of Aquaculture and Fisheries (CONAPESCA) starting today, expecting that its actions have a medium and long term impact.
As part of this initiative, the onboard observers programme will be strengthened to keep the momentum of responsible fishing activity and a permanent monitoring of the fishing effort is defined.
Authorities will also check catch level of this species and bycatch, and provide for the implementation of actions to improve the professional performance of crew members and professionals of the sector and reduce costs, among other issues.
On the other hand, INAPESCA staff and that of the National Health, Food Safety and Quality Service (SENASICA) are responsible for establishing technological and professional development strategies development for the tuna industry.
The integration of the plan was aided by the fishing, industrial, academic, federal and state government sectors and non-governmental organizations, and angling clubs.
At present, the administration of yellowfin tuna is conducted through the International Committee for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (CIAT).
SAGARPA reported that this fishery is conducted by 13 companies in the Gulf of Mexico, of which 3 are located in Yucatan and 10 in Veracruz.