Regional experts nominated by deep-sea RFMO/As gathered at the FAO headquarters in Rome from 3-5 May 2016 to participate in a workshop concerning the 2016 Worldwide Review of Bottom Fisheries in the High Seas. The objectives of the meeting were to present the framework and intent for the review, to review the draft regional chapters, identify any revisions required and agree on a work plan for the completion of the updated document. The meeting started with an introduction to the Worldwide Review, followed by presentations of the deep-sea fisheries in each region by the experts. Discussions were held on information presented as it related to the regional chapters, and on the key messages to be presented in the Worldwide Review. A plan for the completion of the Worldwide Review was also drafted.

Representatives of 11 deep-sea fishing industry bodies met at the FAO Headquarters in Rome, from 2-4 March 2016, to exchange information and opinions on the forthcoming UN General Assembly (UNGA) review of deep-sea fisheries. The meeting was organized by the industry associations and was acilitated by the ABNJ Deep Seas Project. The meeting commenced with presentations on a range of matters affecting deep seas fishing. Discussions followed on strategies to address the international concerns about deep-sea fishing, what information the industry would like to contribute to the UNGA review, and the best ways to communicate this information. An outline of possible submission content was discussed by the meeting participants and this was provided to industry representatives for further development.

The combined Inception and first Project Steering Committee meeting of the ABNJ Deep Seas Project Steering Committee (PSC) was held in Rome, Italy from 15-16 December 2015.

Report of the ABNJ Deep Seas Project Deep Seas Fishing Industry Meeting, 2-4 March 2016, Vigo, Spain

The annual International Coalition of Fisheries Associations (ICFA) meeting was held in Vigo, Spain on 6 October 2015. Given the congregation of industry members, the Coordinator of the ABNJ Deep Seas Project travelled to Vigo to lead a two hour planning meeting for a future, Project supported, Global Deep Sea Fishing Industry Symposium; and obtain a first-hand introduction to industry’s perspective on challenges being faced by industry and implementing the DSF guidelines in particular.