The Indian Ocean Tuna Commission (IOTC) was established in 1993 by the Agreement for the Establishment of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission. It is an intergovernmental organization responsible for the conservation and management of tuna and tuna-like species in the Indian Ocean.

The IOTC is made up of 32 member countries, including coastal countries and fishing entities. Its mandate is to promote cooperation among its members to ensure the conservation and management of tuna and tuna-like species in the Indian Ocean. This is done through a variety of measures, including setting catch limits, monitoring fishing activities, and implementing conservation and management measures.

One of the key objectives of the IOTC is to ensure the sustainable management of tuna stocks in the Indian Ocean. This is achieved through scientific research, which helps to determine the state of tuna stocks and informs management decisions. The IOTC also promotes the adoption of measures to reduce bycatch, such as the use of selective fishing gear, which reduces the capture of non-target species.

The IOTC also works to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in the Indian Ocean. IUU fishing is a significant threat to the sustainability of tuna stocks, and the IOTC plays a crucial role in coordinating efforts to combat this activity. It does this through the implementation of a number of measures, including vessel monitoring systems and catch documentation schemes.

The Agreement for the Establishment of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission is a vital tool in ensuring the sustainable management of tuna stocks in the Indian Ocean. It provides the framework for the IOTC to carry out its mandate and facilitates cooperation among its members. Through its work, the IOTC is helping to ensure the long-term viability of tuna populations in the Indian Ocean, which is crucial for the livelihoods of those who depend on these resources for their income and for the continued provision of this important source of protein to the world’s population.

In conclusion, the Agreement for the Establishment of the Indian Ocean Tuna Commission is of great importance in ensuring the sustainable management of tuna stocks in the Indian Ocean. As a professional, it is essential to highlight the benefits of the IOTC’s work in promoting cooperation among its members, conducting scientific research, reducing bycatch, and combating IUU fishing. This will help to raise awareness of the IOTC’s work and the importance of sustainable fisheries management in the Indian Ocean.