This article explores solutions addressing key challenges in the Southeast Asian fisheries industry, including illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, labor rights violations, and the urgent need for technological advancement. It will examine the impact of these challenges on both marine ecosystems and local communities, highlighting innovative approaches that aim to ensure sustainable practices and protect the livelihoods of those dependent on the industry.
The Southeast Asian fisheries industry is a vital component of the region's economy, providing livelihoods to millions and serving as a crucial source of food for both local and global markets. However, this industry is currently facing a multitude of challenges that threaten its sustainability and long-term viability. Among the most pressing issues are the pervasive problems of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, as well as widespread labor rights violations. These challenges are compounded by the urgent need for technological advancements to enhance the industry's efficiency, sustainability, and resilience.
IUU fishing is one of the most significant threats to the sustainability of Southeast Asia's fisheries. This illicit activity not only depletes fish stocks at unsustainable rates but also undermines the economic stability of legitimate fishers and coastal communities. Research shows that IUU fishing caused over $6 billion in economic losses in Southeast Asia in 2019, with Indonesia and Vietnam being particularly hard hit (Amti: 2022). Besides, it is also a significant destroyer of marine ecosystems. The absence of proper monitoring and enforcement enables IUU fishing to thrive, resulting in the degradation of marine habitats and a severe loss of biodiversity. Studies indicate that IUU fishing depletes fish stocks at unsustainable rates, disrupts marine food chains, and inflicts widespread damage on marine ecosystems. It also further undermines biodiversity and intensifies the impacts of climate change on ocean resources (Revistademarina: 2023).
Another critical issue plaguing the fisheries industry in Southeast Asia is the violation of labor rights. Many workers in this sector are subject to exploitative conditions, including forced labor, inadequate wages, and unsafe working environments. Research highlights that forced labor and human trafficking are pervasive in Southeast Asia's fisheries industry, with migrant workers frequently coerced into dangerous, low-wage conditions on fishing vessels across countries like Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Vietnam (Asean Act: 2023). The lack of regulation and oversight in many parts of the industry allows these abuses to persist, tarnishing the industry's reputation and raising significant ethical concerns (Hrw: 2018).