Tonga Deepwater Snapper Fishery Management and Development Plan 2020 - 2023.

The Tonga Deepwater Snapper Fishery Management and Development Plan is a national policy covering the period between 2020 and 2023. The goals of this policy are to ensure ecologically and economically sustainable deepwater fishery and to enhance food security and livelihoods of all Tongans.
This policy lays down strategies for the sustainable use, conservation and development of deep-water snapper resources in Tongan fisheries waters. The amount of deepwater fish taken will be limited by setting an annual total allowable catch. The minimum size limit for Flametail will be enforced. The number of vessels engaged in deep-water fishery will be limited, and only domestic vessels will be allowed. Deep-water fishing activities will be effectively monitored, and data collection will be strengthened for the effective management of deep-water fishery. Potential diversification opportunities will be explored for other deepwater species, in this regard the squid fishery will be used as an initial trial. The squid fishery catch data will be examined from fishing years 2020-2023. An economically sustainable fishery will be ensured to maximize social and economic benefits for Tonga. Potential domestic and international markets for deepwater species will be explored, particularly for squid. In order to ensure a healthy and abundant fishery, an ecologically sustainable approach will be promoted. Awareness will be raised to understand environmental impacts on the fishery, including the impacts of climate change. The deepwater fishery will be developed to maintain its contribution to the social and economic development of Tonga through employment, food security and livelihoods. The consumption of deepwater species, particularly squid, will be promoted as part of a healthy diet. The Deepwater Fisheries Management Committee will be re-established. The engagement with the Ministry of Fisheries and external stakeholders, such as line agencies, women’s groups, fishing associations, and environmental groups, will be enhanced.