22nd Regular Session of the Scientific Committee

SC22 will review the outputs of the ROP-IWG, including shark species identification and reporting, with a focus on identifying practical enhancements to improve the accuracy and consistency of observer data. The ROP-IWG Chair may also raise several science-related issues for SC22’s awareness, including the observer data flow to SPC, ongoing revisions to minimum standard data fields, and gaps in non-catch transfer data.

• The ROP-IWG met twice in the first half of 2026. Further work is anticipated on gaps in transhipment data, and the need for improved species identification and data standardisation across observer and electronic monitoring systems.