The main topic for discussions was the quota and conservation measures for Jack Mackerel. The parties involved agreed on a quota within the recommended limit of the Scientific Committee of 360.000 tonnes. The EU's share of 28,100 tonnes is a slight increase from last year and was welcomed by Member States and representatives of the EU fleet.

The EU presented the final results of the study on Jack mackerel and stock composition and management options. The Scientific Committee roadmap which was adopted reflects the recommendations made in the study and strengthens the approach to bottom fishing by placing more focus on stock status rather than ecosystem issues).

The SPRFMO also strengthened its monitoring and compliance functions with the adoption of the EU proposed Compliance and Monitoring Scheme whilst two boats were added to Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) vessel list.
The next annual meeting will take place in Chile on 29 January-6 February 2016.

Background

The South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation is an inter-governmental organisation committed to the long-term conservation and sustainable use of the fishery resources of the South Pacific Ocean.

The Organisation consists of a Commission and a number of subsidiary bodies.  The members of the Commission are: Australia, Belize, Republic of Chile, People's Republic of China, Cook Islands, Republic of Cuba, European Union, Kingdom of Denmark in respect of the Faroe Islands, Republic of Korea, New Zealand, Russian Federation, Chinese Taipei and the Republic of Vanuatu.

The EU member states with fishing interests in the area are Poland, the Netherlands, Germany and Lithuania.