Dave Gershman

After months of scientific progress and cooperation among nations that fish in the eastern Pacific Ocean – one of the most productive marine areas in the world – the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (IATTC) is poised to advance long-term protections for five tuna stocks: four in the eastern Pacific – bigeye, skipjack, and two yellowfin – and Pacific bluefin. IATTC oversees fishing in the region for tuna species that are worth a combined $5.14 billion at the final point of sale.

Article April 28, 2026 A Pacific bluefin tuna jumps from the water off the coast of California. In early January, a single Pacific bluefin tuna sold for $3.2 million at auction in Tokyo – a symbolic price, but one that demonstrates the cultural, and culinary, importance of this famous fish species. Just 10 years ago, it seemed possible that the annual New Year’s Day tuna auction would never happen again as the population was severely overfished, down to just 2% of its historic level.

Jumbo flying squid in the South Pacific is part of the largest squid fishery in the world, but it needs stronger, sustainable management. Jumbo flying squid, commonly referred to as Humboldt squid, is a culinary favorite, but insufficient management of its stock in the South Pacific could leave chefs and diners in the United States, Europe and other major markets without the flavors they crave.