Continuation of multi-Member research on the Dissostichus mawsoni exploratory fishery in East Antarctica (Divisions 58.4.1 and 58.4.2) by Australia, France, Japan, Republic of Korea and Spain

Exploratory fishing for toothfish (Dissostichus spp.) in East Antarctica (Divisions 58.4.1 and 58.4.2) began in 2003. Robust stock assessments and catch limits according to CCAMLR decision rules remain to be determined for these Divisions. WG-FSA-16/29 outlines the first multi-member toothfish exploratory fishery research plan for East Antarctica, including research objectives, methods and milestones in accordance with ANNEX 24-01/A. In 2016, the Scientific Committee agreed that the research plan was appropriate to achieve its objectives (SC-CAMLR-XXXV, para. 3.244). We present here a proposal for the continuation of the research plan as set out in WG-FSA-16/29. All significant changes to the plan since 2016 are outlined in Section A, and changes made following WG-SAM-17 are highlighted in blue. Issues arising from the 2016/17 season are also provided in Section B.