Back to news article list

CSBT Wants 50% Cut In Bluefin Tuna Catchff

11 January 2006 Japan

A four-nation commission reportedly wants the southern Bluefin tuna catch to be cut by half next year to protect the endangered species.

Japanese news sources said a report by the Commission for the Conservation of Southern Bluefin Tuna warned that if the catch continues at the current rate, there is a 50-percent chance all fish capable of laying eggs will be gone by 2030.

The commission is made up of Australia, New Zealand, South Korea and Japan.

Other media reports said much of the southern bluefin tuna is shipped to Japan where it is used for a popular Japanese dish.

The commission wants the catch to be reduced to 7,770 tons in 2007, compared to the current limit of 14,080 tons.