Development on collation of tuna fishery statistics for the southeast Asian region

Abstract

SEAFDEC has been responsible since June 1996 for the collation of tuna fishery statistics in the Southeast Asian region. The Marine Fishery Resource Development and Management Department (MFRDMD) of SEAFDEC has requested countries fishing for tuna in the region to provide statistical data for collation. MFRMDM will maintain appropriate databases and publish the data or disseminate it upon request. It has also developed a computer programme known as the Fishery Resources Information and Management System to facilitate information transfer to and from Member Countries. A list is given of species covered, which include 3 major groups of tunas and tuna-like species (tunas and bonitos, seerfish and billfish). A brief account is given of development and progress made in this sector, outlining also the various problems encountered in the collation of tuna fishery statistics provided by Member Countries.