eDNA Detection to Help Combat Illegal Fishing and Modern Slavery

Abstract

• Innovations in DNA-based identification and traceability can now be implemented in Philippine fisheries, serving as solutions that can keep pace with the complex, fast-moving global seafood supply chain. • Seafood fraud is prevalent in the fishing industry and can occur because of illegal fishing, some of which comes from vessels that utilize modern slavery. • With global seafood demand projected to rise through 2030, the challenges of illegal fishing and modern slavery at sea become increasingly linked; challenges which can be reduced by the adoption of emerging eDNA-based tools by both exporting and importing nations, including the Philippines and the United States.