International Tuna Conservation
An international approach is essential for managing tunas and other highly migratory species, such as swordfish and marlins. These powerful fish swim across international boundaries; in some cases, dozens of nations can be fishing on the same stock.
The United States is a member of the following regional fishery management organizations, which are responsible for the conservation and management of tuna and tuna-like stocks:
Within these organizations, the United States promotes the long-term sustainability of fish stocks through science-based management while working to ensure that new measures are fair and equitable to U.S. stakeholders. Some of the most significant challenges include:
The need for stronger data collection, reporting, and enforcement programs outside U.S. waters.
For information on the status of tuna and swordfish stocks, please visit FishWatch.