Mexico Enforces Rules to Reduce Shark Bycatch in Tuna Fisheries

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER), through the National Commission of Aquaculture and Fisheries (CONAPESCA), has formalized regulations to address the incidental capture of sharks in tuna fishing by large longline vessels. The measure follows recommendations from the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT) and technical guidance from the Mexican Institute for Research in Sustainable Fisheries and Aquaculture (IMIPAS), the scientific-technical arm of SADER. The regulations prohibit retaining, storing, transshipping, or landing whole sharks or shark parts incidentally caught in the ICCAT convention area of the eastern Pacific Ocean.

The species covered include the bigeye thresher shark, oceanic whitetip shark, hammerhead sharks of the genus, silky shark, and shortfin mako shark. All listed species, as well as other non-target species under special protection, must be released in a manner that maximizes their survival.

Regulations apply to concession and permit holders, captains, operators, fishermen, crew members, and anyone engaged in tuna fishing in Mexico’s federal waters, including the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and the ICCAT convention zone.

Compliance will be monitored by CONAPESCA and by the Navy within their respective authorities. The measures aim to ensure Mexico meets international commitments while promoting responsible, sustainable fishing practices that protect vulnerable shark species.