This ICCAT Recommendation amends the earlier Recommendation 21-18 on the electronic Bluefin Tuna Catch Document (eBCD) system. It recognizes the importance of implementing an electronic system to improve catch documentation, fraud detection, and rapid information exchange. The eBCD system has been fully implemented since 2016 and aims to replace paper catch documents, with certain limited exceptions. It details usage requirements, derogations for internal EU trade of specific product forms, and procedures for managing technical difficulties including temporary use of paper documents. The Recommendation also addresses ongoing system development, reporting obligations, and provisions for handling trade of live bluefin tuna and recreational catches. The text contains 3 Annexes respectively on Data requirement for the trade of Pacific bluefin tuna under the BCD program; ICCAT Bluefin Tuna Re-Export Certificate; and Procedures to allow the issuance of paper BCDs or printed eBCDs due to technical difficulties with the eBCD system.
2022-01-01