CARICOM Ministers meet in Belize; Chart course for sustainable fisheries and blue economy

By Horace Palacio: Caribbean Community (CARICOM) ministers overseeing fisheries, aquaculture, and the blue economy have concluded a crucial meeting in Belize. New resolutions have been approved to provide policy direction across numerous sectors, including an updated CARICOM Common Fisheries Policy. 

Ministers endorsed resolutions focused on training, improving sanitary and phytosanitary systems to ensure seafood safety and trade, and the development of safe agricultural products from sargassum seaweed. Additionally, policies supporting small-scale fishers, collaboration with development partners, and the management of key fish species were approved.

The resolutions also address the CRFM’s request to the FAO for a comprehensive marine resource survey in the region and aim to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing activities. The meeting endorsed the World Trade Organization (WTO) Fisheries Subsidies Agreement and supported engagement with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) regarding queen conch stock recovery and the development of international instruments on plastic pollution.

The council extensively discussed the US decision to list the Queen Conch as threatened, outlining a coordinated regional approach to engagement with US authorities regarding conservation measures. Data collection, management systems, and the promotion of aquaculture development were also central topics.

CRFM Executive Director Milton Haughton emphasized the ocean’s significance to the region and highlighted the threats of pollution, habitat destruction, climate change, and irresponsible fishing. He expressed satisfaction with positive regional developments in capacity building, collaboration, resource mobilization, and policy reforms.

Outgoing CRFM Chairman Avinash Singh (Trinidad and Tobago) noted significant progress, highlighting the approval of 39 resolutions during recent ministerial council meetings. He emphasized the importance of the fisheries and aquaculture sector for regional economic stability and food security.

Josephine Olivia Connolly (Turks and Caicos Islands) has assumed the role of CRFM chairman.

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