21st Regular Session of the Scientific Committee

As part of the sequenced approach endorsed by the Commission, which prioritizes the development of a harvest strategy for bigeye tuna before addressing yellowfin, SC21 will review three candidate TRPs based on 2012–2015 average spawning biomass depletion levels 34%, 32%, and 36% SBF=0 (paras. 432–436, WCPFC21 Summary Report). These candidate TRPs are to be integrated into candidate MPs and evaluated through the MSE framework.

SC21 will assess:

• The sensitivity of the candidate TRPs by testing alternative fishing levels and considering recent fishing conditions in Region 2;

• The performance of candidate MPs against agreed performance indicators;

• The technical aspects of estimation model options and HCR designs, in line with the harvest strategy work plan.

SC21 will provide scientific advice to the Commission, including recommendations on the most appropriate TRP for bigeye tuna and the most robust and effective candidate MP(s) for consideration and further refinement.