The Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA) is a treaty aimed at preventing, deterring and eliminating illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The agreement was adopted by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) on November 22, 2009, and entered into force on June 5, 2016. As of August 2021, 74 countries have ratified the agreement.
The PSMA is a powerful tool in the fight against IUU fishing, which is estimated to cost the global economy up to $23 billion annually. IUU fishing not only depletes fish stocks, but also damages marine ecosystems and undermines the efforts of legitimate fishermen who follow the rules.
The main provisions of the PSMA require participating countries to inspect foreign vessels that enter their ports, to deny port access to vessels suspected of engaging in IUU fishing, and to share information with other countries about vessels that have been refused entry or detained for illegal fishing activities.
The agreement also calls for greater cooperation between countries, including the exchange of information on IUU fishing, the training of inspectors and the development of regional networks to combat IUU fishing.
Importantly, the PSMA recognizes the importance of sustainable fishing and the need to protect the livelihoods of millions of people who depend on the ocean for their food and income. It also acknowledges the role of small-scale fisheries in achieving food security and poverty reduction.
To ensure the effective implementation of the PSMA, countries are encouraged to adopt national legislation and regulations that reflect the provisions of the agreement. They are also invited to report on their implementation efforts and to participate in peer reviews and capacity-building activities.
The PSMA is available in PDF format on the FAO website, along with a range of other resources for policymakers, fisheries managers and other stakeholders. The PDF document provides an overview of the PSMA, including its objectives, scope and key provisions.
In conclusion, the PSMA is a critical tool in the fight against IUU fishing and the protection of marine resources. The agreement provides a framework for international cooperation and lays out clear obligations for participating countries. Its provisions are designed to ensure that all fishing activities are legal, sustainable and transparent, and that they contribute to the long-term health of ocean ecosystems and the well-being of coastal communities.
