HAVE YOUR SAY ON AUSTRALIAN SEAFOOD IMPORT CONTROLS

‘Have Your Say’ consultation is now open for the discussion paper on measures to prevent the importation of seafood from fsheries involving illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fshing practices.

Assistant Secretary of Fisheries Branch, Mr George Day said Australia is committed to combating IUU fshing through direct domestic action and international collaboration.

“IUU fshing contributes to global overfshing, undermines sustainable management of fsh stocks, threatens marine ecosystems, and puts food security and regional stability at risk,” Mr Day said.

“While Australia adheres to several multilateral catch documentation schemes, concerns have been raised that Australia does not have a national import control scheme to prevent IUU imports entering the country.

“To take appropriate action, we need to better understand

Australia’s vulnerability to IUU fshing imports, identify risks, and explore options for corrective actions if necessary.

“In assessing the case for additional market-based measures, the department will consider the views of consumers, industry, fshers, governments, and non-government organisations, aided by the ‘Have Your Say’ consultation.

“Your submission will inform a draft report that will be released later this year. We will seek further public feedback