Despite gradual improvements, over one-third of the world’s marine fish stocks remain overfished, according to a new report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations.
Released at the UN Ocean Conference on Wednesday, the “Review of the State of World Marine Fishery Resources 2025” reveals that 35.5 percent of global fish stocks continue to face overfishing pressures. While 64.5 percent are being exploited within biologically sustainable limits, the FAO warns that overfishing has been increasing by approximately 1 percent each year in recent times.
“Effective management remains the most powerful tool for conserving fisheries resources,” said Qu Dongyu, director-general of the FAO. “This report provides an unprecedentedly comprehensive understanding, enabling more informed decision-making based on data. It gives governments the evidence they need to shape policy and coordinate coherently.”
The report showcases both progress and challenges. Regions that have implemented long-term, science-based fisheries management strategies have made significant strides. The Northeast Pacific region boasts a sustainability rate of 92.7 percent, and the Southwest Pacific follows closely with 85 percent.
However, other areas lag behind. In the Southeast Pacific, only 46 percent of fish stocks are sustainably fished, and in the Eastern Central Atlantic, the figure is just 47.4 percent. On a brighter note, the Antarctic region reported 100 percent sustainability among the fish stocks assessed.
The comprehensive study involved over 650 experts from 92 countries and assessed the sustainability of 2,570 fish stocks worldwide. The FAO emphasizes the need for continued global efforts to promote sustainable fishing practices, particularly in regions where overfishing remains a critical concern.
For many countries in the Global South, fishing is not just an industry but a lifeline for food security and livelihoods. Sustainable management of fishery resources is essential to preserve marine ecosystems and support the communities that depend on them.
The FAO calls on nations to adopt science-based policies and collaborate internationally to reverse the trend of overfishing and ensure a sustainable future for the world’s oceans.
