21st Regular Session of the Scientific Committee

SC21 will review the outcomes of a re-evaluation of the estimation method (EM) used in the interim Skipjack Tuna Management Procedure (MP), as provided for under CMM 2022-01. SC20 noted that the performance of the MP is scheduled for review in 2025 and that WCPFC20 recognized the potential need to re-evaluate the EM before the MP is next implemented.

SC20 recommended that the SSP examine two specific approaches to modifying the EM, while retaining the current operating model grid and harvest control rule (para 401, SC20 Summary Report):

1. Modification of tropical CPUE abundance indices in the existing estimation method along the lines of the approach taken using unassociated set purse seine CPUE data by the 2022 stock assessment.
2. Further investigation of alternative stock assessment platforms and modelling approaches.

Based on the re-evaluation, SC21 will provide recommendations to WCPFC22 on whether the interim skipjack MP should be revised.