Vanuatu’s jack mackerel quota rises again
March 9, 2026 10:33 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
By Doddy Morris.
Vanuatu has secured another increase in its allocation in the international jack mackerel fishery, highlighting both the recovery of fish stocks and the country’s growing role in sustainable fisheries management.
Vanuatu’s quota was raised to 72,098 tonnes at the 14th Annual Commission Meeting of the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organization (SPRFMO) in Panama City last week, marking the second consecutive year of an increase.
The Vanuatu delegation was led by the Special Envoy and Commissioner for Offshore Fisheries, Saade Makhlouf, and supported by a team of technical experts and advisors.
During the meeting, member countries adopted a new conservation measure setting the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for 2026.
Negotiations around the TAC required extensive discussions, and a small working group was formed to help members reach consensus.
Vanuatu chaired this working group, playing a key role in facilitating dialogue and compromise.
“Vanuatu worked actively with all members of the Commission to help build consensus and find a balanced solution,” Makhlouf said.
“By chairing the working group, our delegation helped members reach an agreement that protects the sustainability of the stock while allowing continued economic benefits for participating countries.”
The quota increase is particularly positive for Vanuatu, with revenues from the jack mackerel fishery expected to exceed one billion vatu this year, making it a major source of national income.
In addition to the TAC, the Commission adopted measures to strengthen monitoring, compliance, and sustainability, including new electronic monitoring standards for vessels operating in the Convention Area.
The Government of Vanuatu has reaffirmed its commitment to responsible fisheries management, ensuring that international participation delivers economic benefits while safeguarding marine resources for future generations.
