The framework for international interaction and collaboration on fisheries
matters is characterized by the existence of a large number of regional fishery
bodies - about 40 already exist and new ones are being established - with
exclusive responsibilities.
Some have real management powers and make decisions on allowable catches,
quota allocations by fishing nation, and technical management measures (on mesh
size, fishing seasons, closed areas, etc.). Many have a purely advisory role and
foster statistics collection, information exchange and scientific analysis.
These only advise members on management and provide a forum, as well as training
opportunities, in contributing to capacity-building. Many of the latter are
established under the aegis of FAO.
