Navigating the Evolving Tuna Landscape
Balancing Sustainability, Supply Chains, and Market Dynamics
9:30–9:45 | Conference Opening & Welcome Note
9:45–11:15 | Session I: Supply Chain Restructuring & Duties
What Impacts Will Trade Protectionism Have on the Future Global Tuna Supply Chain?
The ongoing rivalry among the US, EU, and China continues to shape global trade patterns, leading to fragmented tuna supply chains and increased regional processing. Rising trade protectionism, evolving duties, and shifting free trade agreements may force companies to reconsider their supply chain strategies, diversify sourcing, and reduce reliance on specific nations.
Panelists:
- Péter Kovács, Head of Unit at DG Trade, Dictorate E, DG Trade, European Commission
- Dr. Audun Lem, Deputy Director, Fisheries and Aquaculture Division, FAO
- More names to follow soon…
They will analyze and provide insights on questions such as:
- Can the EU tuna processing industry survive without protective measures?
- What will a FTA with Thailand mean for global tuna companies and processing plants?
- What would be the consequences of protective measures?
11:15–12:00 | Coffee & Refreshment Break
12:00–13:30 | Session II: Transparency & Supply Chain Risk Management
Will Increased Demands for Transparency and Ethical Sourcing Benefit or Burden the Tuna Sector?
Technological advancements, such as AI, affordable satellite imagery, and remote-sensing tools, have revolutionized transparency in the tuna industry. Initiatives like the GDST traceability data standard, the EU’s CATCH system, and the US FSMA regulations are driving sustainable practices and safeguarding consumers from fraud. These shifts, alongside growing consumer demand for ethical sourcing, will reshape sourcing and production strategies in the tuna sector.
Panelists:
- Daniel Suddaby, Executive Director, GTA
- Cynthia Asaf, COO, Pacifical / SmarTuna
- Laura Rodriguez, Head of Species Strategies & Pathways, MSC
- Angel Martinez, COO, Zunibal
They will analyze and provide insights on questions such as:
- What are the demands by DG Mare regarding traceability, etc. towards EU and foreign fleets, exporters?
- Retailers are encountering challenges in implementing a traceability system that meets upcoming EU rules. What are these challenges?
- What is possible with today’s technology in terms of traceability, and how is it adopted?
13:30–15:00 | Lunch Break
15:00–16:30 | Session III: Prices, Catches & Production
Is There Still Room for Growth, or Have We Reached Tuna’s Peak Potential?
La Niña 2024 brought record catches in the Pacific, while fleets in the Atlantic and Indian Ocean faced challenges. Raw material prices fluctuated dramatically, with some processing hubs achieving record output and others shutting down or facing bankruptcy. Despite initial market struggles, recovery surged across sectors, including tuna for human consumption and pet food. Has the industry reached its peak, or is there untapped potential for growth?
Panelists:
- Dr. Victor Restrepo, VP, Science & Chair, Scientific Advisory Committee, ISSF
- Anne-France Mattlet, Tuna Group Director, Europêche
- Krishan Kent, Chairman, Swedish Fish Industry Association
- Antonios Tzikas, COO, KONVA-North Aegean Sea Canneries
They will analyze and provide insights on questions such as:
- Does the state of the global tuna stocks provide any space for market expansion?
- What are the future perspectives of the EU flagged tuna fleet?
- Where do processors and brand owners see the possibilities for growth and what should be done to make this possible?
- Do retailers see potential for growth and more shelf space for tuna products?
