Canada and International Fisheries

Fishing is a global industry, and of key importance to Canada. Sadly, overfishing, illegal fishing activities and the destruction of ocean ecosystems are serious global issues that require immediate and continuing attention. Canada is committed to combating these problems.

In Focus

Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO)

The Northwest Atlantic Fisheries Organization (NAFO) is a regional fisheries management organization founded in 1979. NAFO's overall purpose is to help its members work together and share knowledge to effectively manage and conserve the high seas fishery resources of the Northwest Atlantic Ocean. Canada continues to take a leadership role in NAFO. Read More...

The Facts on the NAFO Convention Amendments

Vulnerable Marine Ecosystems in the Deep Sea

The deep sea is the least studied and understood of the world’s ecosystems. To this day, as the last frontier in human exploration and the search for knowledge, it remains largely unexplored. Fortunately, recent technological advances are helping us to learn more every day about the diverse life found deep below the ocean’s surface.

FAO members adopt new global measures to combat IUU fishing

On November 22, 2009, the FAO formally adopted a legally binding instrument that includes several port State measures to prevent, deter and eliminate IUU fishing. This instrument sets a global minimum standard for actions to be taken against vessels that undertake or support IUU fishing activities.