The ICCAT Recommendation replaces previous management measures for the conservation of North Atlantic blue shark caught in association with ICCAT fisheries, establishing an annual total allowable catch (TAC) of 30,000 tons to ensure sustainable stock levels. This action follows the 2023 stock assessment by the Standing Committee on Research and Statistics (SCRS), indicating the stock is not overfished or subject to overfishing but suggesting a precautionary approach due to a significant probability of the stock being near overfished status. Specific catch limits are allocated to major each Contracting Party and Cooperating non‐Contracting Party, Entity, or Fishing Entity (CPCs) with provisions for catch overages and recording/reporting obligations to maintain accurate data. The recommendation also encourages scientific research on biological parameters and survival rates, with scheduled reviews aligned with future stock assessments, aiming to maintain the stock within sustainable reference points.
2023-01-01