80. The Working Group identified common approaches that could be promoted for sustainable data collection systems. These approaches ensure the capabilities of the countries in the region to collect reliable data. The strategy could include the initial focus on national efforts first then followed by regional interest. Inputs from FAO and APFIC will be useful in order for the countries to effectively carry out these approaches.
i. Terminology should be unified by using common definitions, concepts, terms, classifications, and codes.Classification of species, fishing gear, fishing vessels for statistical purposes should as much as possible make use of the standard classifications and codes developed by FAO. This will make data collection comparable for the countries in the region.
Harmonization of methodology includes software development for use by countries in the region. Methods of analytical interpretation of data and modeling as in the case of inland fishery areas, should also be harmonized where possible.
ii. Database development and data exchange. This concept can be very well carried out by sub-regional and regional organizations which have the capabilities. Exchange of data among the databases already developed should be promoted, where appropriate.
iii. Socio-economic and environmental research. Monitoring the different types of fishing activity and types of gear used, the status of fish trade, characteristics of fish supply and demand as well as information relating to the contribution by the fishing industry to the national economy.
Collection of data on the changes in fishing communities and the exploited stocks, and how these changes affected the ecosystem are necessary to determine the interaction between fisheries and the environment. In addition, impacts of the changes in the environment on fisheries should be monitored especially in coastal areas and flood-plain driven inland systems/fisheries.
iv. MCS and VMS. These systems can provide means of improving the reliability of fishing activity and other data through cost-effective collection means.
