1. Fisheries Agency Refutes Claims ART Agreement Will “Destroy Taiwan’s Fishing Industry”
   The Fisheries Agency has dismissed claims that the ART Agreement and the proposed zero-fee recruitment policy for migrant fishers would “destroy Taiwan’s fishing industry,” calling such assertions inaccurate. The agency noted that the ART Agreement provides a three-year transition period. During this time, the government will work with industry groups and relevant ministries to develop supporting measures that meet international labor standards while minimizing impacts on vessel owners and the fishing sector. On the principle that employers should bear migrant fisher recruitment costs, the Fisheries Agency said it will coordinate with the Ministry of Labor to clarify overseas recruitment expenses and prevent unreasonable costs from being passed on to vessel owners. It will also promote direct hiring mechanisms to reduce brokerage fees. To support the industry, the agency will continue implementing measures such as market expansion, product differentiation, and production adjustments to safeguard fishermen’s incomes and competitiveness.In response to rising fuel prices linked to tensions in the Middle East, the agency has also launched support measures for the distant-water fishing fleet to help ease operating cost pressures. The Fisheries Agency stressed that the government remains committed to supporting the industry through the transition and ensuring the sustainable development and global competitiveness of Taiwan’s fisheries sector.

2. Fisheries Agency Chief Visits Donggang to Monitor Bluefin Tuna Market and Stabilize Supply
    To help maintain a balanced supply of Pacific bluefin tuna and support market stability, Fisheries Agency Director-General Wang Mao-cheng visited Donggang Fish Market early on June 6 to inspect tuna landings, auction operations and price trends. He also boarded fishing vessels to learn about onboard operations, cold-storage capacity and gill-removal practices.　The Fisheries Agency noted that it introduced a bluefin tuna tagging system in 2025 to better manage Taiwan’s national quota. While the system proved effective, a concentration of catches arriving at port created temporary pressure on the market. To address this, the agency has reduced the number of tags issued per vessel per voyage this year to help maintain a steadier daily auction volume.　Wang said bluefin tuna catches should not be concentrated within a short period, as excessive supply could depress prices. In addition to market-management measures, the agency is encouraging fishers to remove gills at sea through incentive programs. Fishers receive a subsidy of NT$2,000 per fish, while local fishermen’s associations provide compensation for an estimated six-kilogram weight loss resulting from the process.　According to the agency, removing gills at sea allows ice to be packed into the gill cavity and abdominal area, improving cooling efficiency and freshness. This helps enhance fish quality and market value upon landing.　The Fisheries Agency said it will continue improving market operations, including promoting fish handling practices that keep catches off the ground and streamline market logistics. The agency also encouraged consumers to enjoy seasonal bluefin tuna and learn more about Donggang’s vibrant fishing culture.