SEAFDEC organized the Project End Meeting on Development of Stock Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resources Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia

The SEAFDEC Secretariat organized the “Project End Meeting on Development of Stock Assessment Methods and Strengthening of Resources Management Measures for Tropical Anguillid Eel in Southeast Asia” on 30–31 October 2025 in Bangkok, Thailand. The Meeting gathered representatives from countries actively involved in the management and/or research of anguillid eel resources, including those with tropical anguillid eel fisheries or related activities, such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, the Philippines, Thailand, and Viet Nam. Cambodia participated via an online platform. Also in attendance were the SEAFDEC Secretary-General, Deputy Secretary-General, Chief of IFRDMD, SEAFDEC technical officers, and resource persons from relevant universities. The event was convened under the SEAFDEC project “Development of Stock Assessment Method for Strengthening of Resources Management Measures of Tropical Anguillid Eels in AMS (2020–2026)” with support from the Japan-ASEAN Integration Fund (JAIF).

In her remarks, the SEAFDEC Secretary-General, Ms. Sampan Panjarat emphasized the importance of building upon existing knowledge and techniques for the sustainable use of tropical eels. She also highlighted the need for continued improvement and advancement of stock assessment and management, particularly in light of the possible consideration of these species for inclusion in CITES Appendix II at the upcoming CITES CoP20, scheduled to be held from 24 November to 5 December 2025.

Over the two days, resource persons shared technical information on stock assessment and management of Anguilla spp., providing participants with a stronger foundation for discussion and deliberation. The participants reviewed the current status of tropical eel fisheries, aquaculture, trade, and research activities, and the Policy Guidelines for the Regional Conservation and Management of Tropical Anguillid Eel Resources in Southeast Asia, which was previously endorsed by SOM-AMAF in 2019. The Meeting also developed recommendations for the future directions for ensuring sustainable utilization.