On 9 July 2025, the RPOA-IUU Secretariat participated in the 5th Meeting of the ASEAN Network for Combating IUU Fishing (AN-IUU) via video conference to receive updates on the AN-IUU Interactive Platform and contribute to discussions on priority activities for 2025–2026.
The Secretariat presented an overview of ongoing regional initiatives, reaffirming the role of RPOA-IUU as a voluntary framework of 11 participating countries committed to strengthening fisheries management, conserving marine resources, and combating IUU fishing. The presentation also highlighted the work of RPOA-IUU’s three sub-regional groups—SESCS–SSS, Gulf of Thailand, and Arafura and Timor Seas, which support focused collaboration and joint action.
Under Agenda Item 5, the Secretariat reported progress on the development of the RPOA-IUU data-sharing mechanism, including discussions on sharing strategic, tactical, and operational data. Key data elements identified include catch data, vessel tracking and AIS information, port and landing records, IUU fishing reports, environmental and ecological data.
The Secretariat emphasized the importance of regional cooperation, case-based learning, and tailored capacity-building programs to support countries in addressing IUU fishing. Efforts to build awareness through newsletters, knowledge platforms, and promotion of decent working conditions in the fishing sector were also highlighted.
The presentation underscored RPOA-IUU’s structured approach to combating IUU fishing, the challenges faced, and the next steps, including enhanced regional capacity building and the development of comprehensive data-sharing protocols.