Complete guide to the most important international fishing terms

Complete guide to the most important international fishing terms
The fishing sector is a global industry that requires the use of common technical and legal terms to facilitate operations and trade between countries. Knowing these concepts is key to staying up to date and operating efficiently in the international context. In this article, we will explain the most relevant international fishing terms and their importance in the management and trade of seafood products.

What are international fisheries terms?
International fisheries terms are concepts used globally to describe activities, regulations and practices related to fisheries and aquaculture. These terms facilitate communication and understanding between companies, governments and international organizations.

Main international fishing terms

1. FAO (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations): Key body for the management and regulation of fisheries worldwide. It publishes guidelines and data on the state of fisheries resources.

2. TAC (Total Allowable Catch): Total catch limit allowed for a species in a specific area during a given period. This term is key to avoiding overfishing and ensuring the sustainability of marine resources.

3. MSY (Maximum Sustainable Yield): Maximum amount of catch of a species that can be sustained without putting its population at risk in the long term.

4. MSC (Marine Stewardship Council) Certification: International sustainability seal for fisheries that meet strict criteria for responsible management and protection of the marine ecosystem.

5. VMS (Vessel Monitoring System): Vessel monitoring system that allows tracking their movements in real time and verifying that they comply with fishing regulations.

6. RFMO (Regional Fisheries Management Organizations): Regional bodies responsible for the management and conservation of fishery resources in specific areas.

7. Bycatch (Captura incidental): Marine fauna unintentionally captured during fishing operations. Managing bycatch is key to reducing the impact on the ecosystem.

8. Fisheries Observer: Professional responsible for monitoring and recording activities on board vessels to ensure compliance with regulations.

The importance of knowing these terms to operate internationally
The use of these terms not only facilitates communication between industry players, but is also essential to ensure compliance with international regulations, participate in global trade in fishery products and promote the sustainability of marine resources. Companies and professionals operating in the fishing sector must be familiar with them to avoid errors and take advantage of opportunities in the international market.

Knowing and understanding international fisheries terms is essential for those working in the fishing industry, from fleet operators to managers of exporting companies. Staying up to date with the most relevant terminology will allow you to operate more efficiently, ensure regulatory compliance and contribute to the sustainability of the sector. If you need advice to implement these practices in your organization or better understand the international terms applied to fishing, contact us for specialized support from our experts.

Do you want to operate efficiently in the international market? Contact us and get specialized advice on fisheries management and international regulations.