Marine Stewardship

Falkland Islands Fisheries: Science Led, Sustainable, and Globally Respected

Living on a remote archipelago in the South Atlantic, Falkland Islanders have a deep connection to the sea and take pride in their maritime heritage. The establishment of the Fisheries Conservation Zones and the introduction of modern fisheries management in 1986 transformed the Islands’ economy and opened new opportunities for local people. Today, fishing remains the primary driver of economic activity.

Scale and Significance

Although modest in global terms, the Falkland Islands fishery is vital to our community. Our marine zone spans just under 450,000 km², and over the past five years annual catches have averaged ~311,088 tonnes, with nearly 75% of the catch comprising two squid species. The fishery’s contribution underpins social, economic, and cultural wellbeing across the Islands.

A Science Led Management System

Our fishery is explicitly designed to ensure long-term sustainability and minimal ecosystem impact. The Falkland Islands Government invests in research, monitoring, and stock assessment so that evidence directly informs annual management decisions. Each year, the Fisheries Department:

• Reviews stock assessments and ecosystem indicators
• Sets and adjusts catch limits and fishing effort
• Considers and implements additional sustainability measures where needed

This science first approach safeguards target stocks and reduces impacts on bycatch species, seabirds, marine mammals, and sensitive habitats—protecting marine resources for future generations.

Strong Laws and Action Plans

The Fisheries (Conservation and Management) Ordinance 2005 and the Fisheries (Action Plans) Regulations 2021 set binding goals for healthy oceans, ecosystem protection, and continuous improvement. These require close collaboration between government, scientists, and industry to maintain ecosystem health and adopt best practice fishing measures. Tools include:

• Temporal and spatial closures to protect spawning grounds and sensitive habitats
• Mandatory industry participation in science and research
• Conservation rules to minimise bycatch and reduce seabird and marine mammal interactions

Quota Management that Delivers Sustainability and Efficiency

All but two of our 10 fisheries operate under an internationally recognised Individual Transferable Quota (ITQ) system (in place since 2007). Quotas are allocated using scientific stock assessments and adjusted annually to reflect stock status and ecosystem conditions. Rigorous harvest control rules deliver:

• Responsible, stable fishing aligned with conservation objectives
• Flexibility for operators to use opportunities efficiently
• Clear accountability and long-term stewardship of shared resources

Our Toothfish fishery is certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC), reflecting adherence to high international sustainability standards.

High Standards of Monitoring and Compliance

Falkland Islands fisheries are closely monitored to ensure rules are followed and outcomes are achieved. Measures include:

• Electronic vessel monitoring systems (VMS)
• Electronic daily reporting
• Independent observers with targeted coverage
• Onboard inspections
• Random catch verification and additional enforcement activities

The information collected supports ongoing research, adaptive management, and strong compliance with the Fisheries Ordinance.

What Compliance Demonstrates (For Operators)

A company operating in full compliance with Falkland Islands regulations shows that it:

1. Protects stock health by following scientifically set quotas, seasonal restrictions, and harvest control rules.
2. Safeguards ecosystems by meeting legally mandated measures to reduce bycatch and protect seabirds, marine mammals, and habitats.
3. Supports worldclass science through data sharing, research participation, and observer access that strengthen evidence-based decisions.
4. Operates transparently under stringent monitoring, reporting, and inspection requirements.
5. Aligns with global best practice, including recognised certifications (e.g., MSC for Toothfish) and a robust ITQ framework.

In Summary

The Falkland Islands fishery is one of the world’s most science driven and carefully managed. Built on rigorous law, independent science, and comprehensive monitoring, it balances economic opportunity with ecosystem stewardship. Companies that comply with this framework are not simply following rules—they are active partners in protecting the Southwest Atlantic and ensuring a sustainable industry for generations to come.