Sustainable Development Goal 14.b calls for providing ‘access for small-scale fishers to marine resources and markets’ by 2030. Small-scale fisheries directly support approximately 7% of the global population and make up 47% of the value generated by the seafood industry.

International seafood markets and big retail chains are increasingly important for small-scale fisheries, providing these fisheries with opportunities that can contribute to long-term socioeconomic stability. Through seafood sourcing policies that explicitly commit to supporting small-scale fishers, retailers can make positive contributions to healthier oceans, sustainable fisheries and the well-being of coastal communities.

This report explores retailers’ procurement of small-scale fisheries’ produce, the challenges faced and the opportunities available.