IN BRIEF - Trial begins for top Moon officials regarding death of fisheries employee
SOUTH KOREA
Friday, March 24, 2023
The first trial of the top intelligence and security officials from the Moon Jae-in government began Friday over the death of a South Korean public employee who drifted into North Korean waters.
The trial took place on West Sea Defense Day, which was first designated in 2016 to commemorate the soldiers who lost their lives to defend against military provocations by North Korea, in the Second Battle of Yeonpyeong in 2002, the sinking of the Cheonan warship in 2010 and the shelling of Yeongpyeong Island in 2010.
Former Blue House national security adviser Suh Hoon, National Intelligence Service (NIS) Chief Park Jie-won and Defense Minister Suh Wook appeared at the Seoul Central District Court where they defended themselves against allegations that they had tampered with and manipulated documents in order to make it look like a South Korean fisheries official was attempting to defect to North Korea.
An 18-month plan aims to reduce bureaucracy and improve transparency in federal waters.
Brazil's TCU, MPA, SPU, Navy and aquaculture representatives agreed on eight measures to accelerate project regularization, standardize requirements, coordinate agencies and introduce digital monitoring of applications.
The agreement establishes an action plan divided into eight areas, with defined responsibilities, deliverables, and deadlines.
Archipelagos calls for an investigation by the European Public Prosecutor's Office (EPPO).
The NGO identified 35 cases of alleged misuse of EU fisheries funding, reportedly supporting resorts, butcher shops and unrelated businesses. The Greek government denies wrongdoing, insisting the grants comply with EU rules.
The industry has organised its own trade delegation and is taking part in two more as it seeks to establish itself in a potentially massive market
Scotland’s salmon sector is making an enhanced effort to promote its products in India after the world’s most populous country opened the door to Scottish fish imports by scrapping a 33% tariff as part of a trade deal with the UK.
Scottish salmon is being promoted on three separate trade visits this month.
Author: Gareth Moore / fishfarmingexpert | Read the full article here
FAO-backed initiatives are helping Malagasy women improve fish processing, reduce losses, increase incomes and strengthen local fisheries value chains
Women working in Madagascar’s small-scale fisheries are improving their incomes and expanding market access through training, better processing equipment and stronger cooperatives, as efforts to implement national sustainable fisheries guidelines deliver practical benefits to coastal communities.
Small-scale fisheries account for at least 40% of global fisheries catches and support nearly 500 million people, making them vital to food security, nutrition and livelihoods, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
Nigeria partners with Norway to strengthen maritime surveillance and combat IUU fishing.
Minister Adegboyega Oyetola announced cooperation under Norway's Blue Justice initiative, using satellite-based AIS tracking to detect illegal vessels, protect fish stocks, safeguard local jobs and reduce economic losses.
The estimated annual losses highlight the economic consequences of illegal fishing, which threatens jobs and investment across the fisheries value chain, including fish processing, storage, transportation and distribution.
Review aims to strengthen sustainability, traceability and certification transparency.
The MSC seeks feedback until December 8, 2026, on protected species (ETP), independent observers, electronic monitoring and audits.
Version 4 is scheduled for release in September 2027, taking effect six months later.
The process includes the MSC Fisheries Standard v3.1, the Fisheries Certification Process v3.1, and the Fisheries Standard Toolbox v1.2, following a final 30-day consultation in April 2027.
NOAA Fisheries has awarded 14 new grants through its Scallop Research Set-Aside Program.
The program was set up by the New England Fishery Management Council in 1999 and carves out part of the fishery’s landings to boats to carry out research projects.
The quota awards function as a financial incentive for boats to participate in the research; instead of getting paid directly, fishers get access to quota that will allow them to harvest more and make more money.This year, NOAA Fisheries is giving out 1.5 million pounds of Atlantic sea scallops as part of its program
Author: Chris Chase / SeafoodSource | Read the full article here
Princes welcomes progress on mackerel stocks but calls for long-term sustainability focus.
Latest scientific advice highlights encouraging signs for recovery, while underlining the importance of responsible sourcing decisions.
Princes welcomes the latest scientific advice on North-East Atlantic mackerel, describing signs of stock recovery as positive news for the seafood sector while warning that long-term sustainability challenges remain.
The latest assessment from the International Council for the Exploration of the Sea (ICES) shows an improvement in stock biomass and a significant increase in its recommended catch levels for 2027.
Regional cooperation to boost food security and jobs
Experts from 22 ATLAFCO member states met in Dakar, October 7–8, to promote sustainable aquaculture.
RAFAQUA and RAFISMER urged coordinated investment, research and infrastructure to offset declining fish catches, create jobs and strengthen food security.
Minister Jelta Wong promotes state investment and local industry growth.
The government will expand tuna processing through Fisheries Capital Limited, StartFish and special economic zones. Fisheries exports exceed K1.6 billion annually, supporting 14,000 jobs. Reforms aim to boost exports, investment and employment.