International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT)

ICCAT is the high-seas intergovernmental body responsible for the management and conservation of tuna and tuna-like species (including sharks and rays) in the Atlantic Ocean.

Shark Trust has been an observer to ICCAT since 2015

WHY ARE SHARKS RELEVANT?

Although the name of the Commission refers to ‘tunas’ – ICCAT’s remit includes tuna-like species, such as swordfish and pelagic sharks (e.g. Blue Sharks, Shortfin Makos, Porbeagle). However, ICCAT has adopted new Convention text which formally incorporates sharks and rays, and provides more avenues for securing management. Once ratified, this amended text will modernise the Convention and strengthen the remit for shark conservation.

WHAT'S OUR INVOLVEMENT?

Together with our Shark League partners, our successful efforts to secure groundbreaking international conservation advances for Atlantic sharks and rays include:

• Retention bans for exceptionally vulnerable Whale Sharks, Mobulid Rays, White Sharks, and Basking Sharks

• Tighter trade restrictions for hammerhead and silky sharks

• A multi-year pause on retention of depleted North Atlantic Shortfin Mako, and catch limits for the South Atlantic, and

• Unprecedented support for stronger finning bans.