Marin Trust Whole fish pre-assessment made available.

Project participants confirmed

Workplan made public

The FIP participated in an International Whale Shark Day event in August 2024 focused on marine conservation and sustainable fishing practices, with an emphasis on whale shark protection. Fishermen, officials, and conservationists discussed the ecological importance of whale sharks and ETP species, challenges in conservation, and encouraged community participation in marine biodiversity preservation​

The FIP held a workshop which brought together over 450 stakeholders, including fishermen leaders and officials, to develop a Fisheries Management Plan (FMP) for sustainable fishing practices. Key outcomes included extending the fishing ban, establishing a code of conduct, and forming the Sea=MC² committee to promote regional coordination for sustainable fisheries management along the west coast​.

The FIP has compiled a review of species composition within the fishery over the past five years, which will inform the stock assessment.

The FIP met with the Department of Fisheries and discussed the need for surveillance, control and enforcement measures to improve sustainable fishing and reduce ecosystem impacts. Yashaswi Fish Meal & Oil Company has committed to enhancing fishery practices through collaborative efforts, addressing gaps in compliance, and supporting reward programs for the release of endangered species if accidentally caught​.