In a historic first, the Australian Southern Bluefin Tuna Industry Association (ASBTIA) has been certified as sustainable to the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) standard, marking a significant milestone for a highly sought-after species that was once on the brink due to overfishing.
Australian Southern Bluefin Tuna – an internationally prized species, now certified sustainable following stock recovery and adherence to the MSC’s rigorous sustainability standards. Photo credit: Australian Southern Bluefin Tuna Industry Association (ASBTIA)
In a groundbreaking achievement for sustainable fisheries, the Australian Southern Bluefin Tuna Industry Association (ASBTIA) has become the first Southern Bluefin Tuna (SBT) fishery in the world to attain certification to the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) Fisheries Standard. This historic recognition underscores ASBTIA’s commitment to responsible fishing practices as well as decades-long efforts in international fisheries management, scientific oversight, and quota enforcement.
Southern Bluefin Tuna has long been a species of concern, with historical overfishing threatening both stocks and the wider marine ecosystem. However, through science-based management and industry leadership, the species has rebounded, leading to its recent removal from Australia’s EPBC (Environment Protection and Biodiversity Conservation) list of threatened species. This milestone highlights the positive impact of rigorous sustainability efforts, with MSC certification further reinforcing that recovery is possible when fisheries follow responsible practices.
In celebration of the remarkable stock recovery and global recognition received through MSC certification, Australian Minister for the Environment and Water, Hon. Tanya Plibersek said, “Environmental conservation and sustainable industry go hand in hand - and Aussie industry is world beating. The Australian tuna fishing industry has done such terrific work that the Southern bluefin tuna population is now healthy. As a result, Southern Bluefin tuna has been certified as sustainable, and removed from the threatened species list. This is a great example of how the Labor Government's strong record on environmental protection is both good for nature, and for business. I am glad to have recognised the tuna industry’s work through our strengthened South East Marine Park plans.”
Beyond its ecological significance, Southern Bluefin Tuna is an economic powerhouse for Port Lincoln, the heart of Australia’s tuna industry. Renowned for its premium quality, rich flavour, and high market value, this prized fish is sought after by top chefs and sushi connoisseurs globally.
With MSC certification, the fishery meets the growing demand for eco-labelled, sustainably sourced seafood. The blue MSC label provides consumers and buyers worldwide with confidence in the fishery’s sustainability, opening doors to environmentally conscious markets that prioritise transparency and sustainability in their purchasing decisions.
On behalf of the international standard for sustainable fisheries, Anne Gabriel, MSC Program Director for Oceania and Singapore commends the fishery, “With its successful certification, the Southern Bluefin Tuna Fishery is now recognised as one of the most sustainable fishing operations in the world. It adds to the list of sustainable fisheries in South Australia, managed by the Commonwealth, showcasing leadership, Innovation and Science at its best. Together, our goal is to continue feeding a growing population, while sustaining livelihoods and keeping Mother Nature thriving with biodiversity. This certification is not just a badge of honour; it is proof that sustainable fishing practices can reverse environmental challenges. It sets a global benchmark for responsible stewardship and demonstrates that economic growth and environmental conservation can go hand in hand.”
The independent MSC assessment process evaluates fisheries on stock health, ecosystem impacts, and management effectiveness. ASBTIA’s certification serves as a beacon of progress, demonstrating that even highly valued and once-overfished species can be harvested sustainably under science-driven policies.
ASBTIA CEO, Daniel Casement reflected on the milestone achievement, ‘It is hugely rewarding to be Certified against the MSC standard, the worlds most recognised eco-label. This is recognition for decades of innovation, commitment to conserving SBT and developing as a global leader in tuna production, fisheries research and management, providing a consistent, highly-sought after product for multiple markets.”
“Being the first SBT fishery in the world to achieve this and having all our stakeholders recognise these achievements and celebrate with us is humbling, yet fills us full of excitement as to what is still ahead of us with MSC Certification as our platform for industry, market, and product development." said Casement.
An official celebration of the certification will be held at Tunki Ceviche & Woodfire Grill in Adelaide, South Australia on April 16, 2025. Government officials, industry leaders, and sustainability advocates will gather to honour the landmark achievement for Australian fisheries.
Why This Matters:
A global win for all: The only SBT fishery to achieve MSC certification. SBT is one of the most desirable and valuable tuna species in global markets, particularly in Japan, where it is prized for high-end sushi and sashimi. The Japanese market drives a significant portion of demand, with top-grade SBT fetching premium prices.
Market trust: The MSC blue label signals sustainability to consumers worldwide. With pressure to uphold strong environmental benchmarks, the new milestone ensures renewed scrutiny and credibility on the MSC label itself.
Future proofing: Ensuring the longevity of SBT for generations to come.
Market Impact: The announcement sends a powerful signal to global seafood markets: High-value, migratory species can meet rigorous sustainability standards if the political will and science-based frameworks are in place.
Economic value: The move is expected to open up new markets, especially in Europe and Asia, and reshape consumer perceptions of tuna sustainability.
For more details on the ASBTIA MSC assessment, visit: