A Global View of Tuna Fishing Fleets
Recent ISSF research provides new insights into the vessels behind three-quarters of the world’s tuna catch.
ISSF’s first global analysis of tuna longline fleets identified 7,288 unique vessels registered across five tuna RFMOs. The updated purse-seine fleet snapshot estimates 693 large-scale purse-seine vessels target tropical tuna worldwide, with a combined fish hold volume (FHV) of approximately 895,000 m³.Together, the analyses offer insights into fleet composition, distribution, and fishing capacity — highlighting the importance of complete, consistent, and transparent vessel data.
Review ISSF’s Latest Vessel Research
Vessel Transparency in Practice
Among large-scale purse-seine vessels targeting tropical tuna, 73% — representing 83% of FHV — are listed on the ProActive Vessel Register (PVR), while 58% — representing 69% of FHV — are listed on Vessels in Other Sustainability Initiatives (VOSI).
The PVR provides independently audited information on compliance with applicable ISSF conservation measures; VOSI shows vessel participation in other tuna sustainability initiatives.
Learn About ISSF Vessel Transparency Tools
DID YOU KNOW?
ISSF Participating Companies must ensure that 100% of the large-scale purse-seine vessels they purchase tropical tuna from are listed on the ProActive Vessel Register (PVR).
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