The CTFF is a platform for opportunity to share experiences, highlight practical solutions and discuss issues among peers for addressing issues related to sustainable fisheries such as bycatch, IUU, sustainable seafood trade and associated linkages to food security.
In addition to the info-sharing and consensus-building outcomes of the biennial meetings, the CTFF is also an ongoing advocacy and communications platform, highlighting progress from CTFF members on delivering elements of the CTFF action plan, monitoring commitments, and providing updates and alerts on key CTFF advocacy points.
What has the CTFF achieved so far?
- Has expanded into a group of over 300 members across a range of sectors including fishing communities, associations, exporters, processors, retailers, scientists, technicians and government managers.
- Was catalytic in developing joint advocacy on bycatch Conservation Management Measures among a large spectrum of tuna exporters, buyers, retailers and fishing companies. Over ten key companies are now signing on and advocating for tougher measures on turtle bycatch mitigation in longline fisheries, leading to a noticeable shift in the debate to "how?" and not "why?".
- Has led to several new pilot projects/partnerships on the water related to fisheries improvement (e.g. bycatch best practices and traceability applications).
- Has cultivated specific policy papers - such as the Coral Triangle circle hook policy brief - which has been formally presented to several governments, demonstrably influencing policy and in some cases leading to new projects (trials) and budget allocation from fishing departments.
