Canberra, Australia – According to the Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF), a significant step forward has been taken in the global fight against illegal fishing with the recent approval of new international measures. On May 27, 2025, DAFF announced Australia’s commitment to implementing stricter controls as part of an international agreement under the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. This initiative, aimed at curbing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, underscores the importance of collaborative efforts in protecting marine ecosystems, ensuring sustainability, and safeguarding global fisheries.
The agreement, known as the Agreement on Port State Measures (PSMA), is the first binding international treaty specifically targeting IUU fishing. It requires signatory countries, including Australia, to implement robust port state measures to prevent illegally caught fish from entering international markets. This is a critical move, as IUU fishing accounts for up to 26 million tonnes of fish annually, representing a significant threat to marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of millions who depend on ocean resources. Australia, as a key player in the Indo-Pacific region, has pledged to strengthen its biosecurity and inspection processes at ports to align with these international standards.
Under the PSMA, vessels suspected of engaging in IUU fishing can be denied entry to ports or subjected to thorough inspections. Information sharing between countries is also a cornerstone of the agreement, enabling a coordinated global response to track and penalize offending vessels. DAFF highlighted that Australia’s participation not only reinforces its commitment to sustainable fishing practices but also sets a precedent for other nations to follow. The department emphasized that these measures will help protect vulnerable fish stocks and marine habitats, which are integral to the health of the planet’s environment.
The implementation of these measures comes at a crucial time, as overfishing and illegal practices continue to deplete fish populations worldwide. In Australia, the focus will be on enhancing monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, particularly in remote coastal areas where illegal fishing often goes undetected. DAFF is working closely with regional partners and international agencies like the FAO to ensure that training and resources are available for effective implementation. This includes capacity-building programs for port officials and the adoption of advanced technologies for vessel tracking and surveillance.
Beyond the immediate benefits to marine conservation, the PSMA is expected to have broader economic and social impacts. By reducing the influx of illegally caught fish into markets, legitimate fishers and businesses in Australia and beyond will face less unfair competition, supporting local economies. Furthermore, protecting fish stocks ensures long-term food security for communities that rely on seafood as a primary protein source. DAFF noted that Australia’s seafood industry, valued at over AUD 3 billion annually, stands to gain significantly from a level playing field in international trade.
To illustrate the real-world impact of these efforts, DAFF pointed to the example of the Southern Bluefin Tuna, a species heavily targeted by illegal fishing operations in the Southern Ocean. Through collaborative international efforts, including data sharing and joint patrols, recovery programs for this species have shown promising results in recent years, with population estimates suggesting a slow but steady increase. This specific case highlights how targeted measures under agreements like the PSMA can directly contribute to the recovery of overexploited marine species.
Additionally, statistical data from the FAO underscores the scale of the challenge and the importance of such agreements. According to their latest reports, IUU fishing is estimated to cost the global economy up to USD 23 billion each year, a staggering figure that illustrates the urgent need for coordinated action. Australia’s commitment to the PSMA is a vital part of addressing this economic and environmental crisis, ensuring that the benefits of sustainable fishing practices are felt both locally and globally.
Australia’s role in this international effort also extends to advocacy and leadership within regional forums. DAFF representatives have been actively engaging with neighboring countries to promote the adoption of similar port state measures, fostering a united front against IUU fishing in the Asia-Pacific region. This collaborative approach is essential, as marine ecosystems do not adhere to national boundaries, and the health of one region’s waters directly impacts others. The department’s proactive stance reflects a deep understanding of the interconnected nature of global environmental challenges and the need for shared responsibility.
For more information, visit Department of Agriculture, Fisheries and Forestry (DAFF).