Growing Calls for Reform of the FAO Ecolabelling Guidelines

Equitable Market Access for Small-Scale Fisheries

The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) has recognized increasing concerns regarding the existing certification systems, which inadvertently exclude small-scale fisheries (SSF) from accessing global seafood markets. This acknowledgment came during the recent FAO Sub-Committee on Fish Trade meeting held from September 8-12.

Importance of the FAO Sub-Committee Meeting

The FAO Sub-Committee serves as a crucial platform where Member States, intergovernmental organizations, and NGOs converge to review global fish trade statistics, discuss international policy developments, and share innovative national initiatives. Among the various discussions, a significant emphasis was placed on reforming ecolabelling practices alongside efforts to reduce food loss and waste, ensure food safety, and enhance market competitiveness.

The Role of Ecolabelling in Seafood Trade

Ecolabelling certification is designed to assure consumers that fishery products originate from sustainably managed stocks. However, this certification has become increasingly essential for accessing lucrative markets, particularly in the UK, continental Europe, and the US. Unfortunately, the existing ecolabelling framework has primarily catered to industrial fisheries, resulting in an uphill battle for small-scale operators.

Challenges Faced by Small-Scale Fisheries

For small-scale operators, the financial burden of certification remains disproportionately high. Many of these fisheries lack the necessary data and human resource capacity to meet the rigorous criteria established for industrial-scale operations. Studies indicate that even those SSF that manage to obtain certification often find that the costs outweigh the benefits, especially when competing with larger industrial fleets.

A Call for Change

As ecolabelling continues to play a pivotal role in seafood trade, its current structure poses a risk of deepening inequities and contradicting global commitments such as Sustainable Development Goal 14.b and the Voluntary Guidelines for Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries. With the existing framework based on FAO Ecolabelling Guidelines created two decades ago, a revision is long overdue to reflect contemporary practices and commitments.

“For too long, ecolabelling has worked as a gatekeeper, limiting opportunities for small-scale fisheries that are often just as, if not more, sustainable than their industrial counterparts,” stated Martin Purves, Managing Director of International Pole and Line Foundation (IPNLF). “The system must evolve to ensure fairness and inclusivity.”

Next Steps for the FAO

In light of the reform discussions raised during the Sub-Committee on Fish Trade, the FAO plans to draft a guidance document that accurately represents the realities faced by SSF before revising its outdated Ecolabelling Guidelines. Advocates underscore the need for this consultation process to be transparent and inclusive, ensuring that small-scale fisheries have a genuine voice in shaping the reforms.

Empowering Small-Scale Fisheries

“This is a pivotal opportunity to align ecolabelling with global commitments like SDG 14.b,” remarked Purves. “If implemented correctly, reforms can empower small-scale fishers and contribute to a more just and sustainable seafood trade.”

Get Involved

Stakeholders who are interested in influencing the future of ecolabelling are encouraged to reach out to IPNLF for further information.