Changes in apparent fishing effort in Subareas 48.1 following the lapse of CM 51-07

The lapse of CCAMLR CM 51-07 in 2024 removed limits on distributing the 620,000-tonne trigger limit krill catch across Subareas 48.1–48.4, raising concerns about concentrated fishing. Analysis of Global Fishing Watch (AIS-based) data shows a marked increase in apparent fishing effort in Subarea 48.1 during 2025 compared to 2024, particularly in predator-rich areas such as the Gerlache and Bransfield Straits. While AIS data have limitations, initial results indicate higher intensity of apparent fishing effort. ASOC recommends that CCAMLR consider these changes in the intensity of apparent fishing effort, reflected also in a broader spatial footprint, as it continues to assess the impacts of the krill fishery on the ecosystem and consider management implications.