Conclusions of the 25th session of the Committee included: the need for a strategy to improve information on capture fisheries; reaffirmation of the need for global implementation of measures against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing; the importance of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries and its related International Plans of Action (IPOAs) in promoting long-term sustainable development of fisheries; and identification of key priority work areas for 2004-05.

In recent years, the demand for reliable data and reporting on aquaculture has greatly increased, driven not only by the need to formulate and monitor sound policies and development plans, but also by the reporting requirements of international agreements and by increasing public demand for transparency and accountability. This document sets out the findings of a FAO expert consultation, held in January 2004, to discuss relevant issues including approval of a draft strategy and outline plan for improving information on status and trends of aquaculture.