Fish and seafood products have always provided not only a source of sustenance among many households, but also have given opportunities for trade and livelihood to many entrepreneurs. Currently, more than 1/3 of the world’s fish output is traded internationally thus earning an export value of over US$60 billion. In developing countries, export of fish products constitutes nearly 20% of agricultural and food-processing exports. The trade of fish and fish products will likely boost since their demand continues to grow and increase. However, the reality is, fish stocks around the world are under such pressure of becoming depleted or economically improbable. This is the primary reason why many advocates, suppliers, distributors, and retailers are pushing for the conservation and sustainability of the seafood industry. Indo Merchandise, Inc. is at the forefront in promoting such an advocacy.
Many fisheries all over the world are overly exploited to the extent that seafood supply is depleted. This will definitely threaten the health of the seafood industry which can lead to a devastating blow to the economy and livelihood of many communities all over the world.
Overfishing is the main culprit of this sad state that can plague the entire seafood industry. This global environmental problem can be defined in a number of ways. It can be defined as the practice of commercial and non-commercial fishing which depletes a fishery by catching too much adult fishes that there will be not enough left to breed and replenish their population. It exceeds the carrying capacity of the fishery. Some may define overfishing simply as catching too much fish that the fish can’t sustain its population. Every definition leads to only one point which is overfishing is the catching of too much fish for the ecosystem to support. This will definitely lead to a total dilapidation of the entire system.
Of course, overfishing is a non-sustainable method of using the oceans and seas. If this type of fishing will continue or increase, there will be devastating consequences. Loss of revenue among seafood entrepreneurs and loss of livelihood among fishing folks will certainly occur. In some areas of the world, there will be reduced food security.
Now more than ever, conservation of fish stocks in the world must be given primary priority to achieve a sustainable supply for the generations to come. International laws and regulations are implemented to promote sustainable fisheries management. These rules and standards are in place to prevent overexploitation of fish and seafood, restore depleted stocks, and safeguard the sea ecosystem.
We, Indo Merchandise, Inc., have always practiced sustainable fishing. It is our true goal to provide our customers with high quality tuna and deliver tuna products that are produced in an environmentally conscientious and sustainable way. We constantly reassess and scientifically determine the amount of tuna we catch while keeping vital parts of the ecosystem protected from destructive fishing methods.
However, it is fair to say that we can’t solve this global problem just by ourselves. We need more help from every individual for the conservation and sustainability of the seafood industry.