At the beginning of 2024, the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission (CIAT), led by the Panamanian Arnulfo Franco, carried out a visit to the facilities of the Panama Aquatic Resources Authority (ARAP). During the meeting with the general administrator in charge, Hamed Tuñón, and his team, the commitment to mutual collaboration to advance the crucial mission of conservation and management of marine species was reaffirmed.

The CIAT, as the regional fisheries management organization (OROP), deploys its efforts in the conservation and management of tuna, related species and their ecosystems in the eastern Pacific Ocean, from Canada in the north to Chile in the south.

During this meeting, common objectives were discussed and the next work to be carried out in the Achotines Laboratory, located in Pedasí, province of Los Santos, were outlined. This laboratory, in operation since 1984, has the necessary infrastructure to maintain all stages of the life of tuna in captivity, with well-equipped wet and dry laboratories. Its main purpose is the study of the biology and ecology of tuna.

These strategic collaborations will further strengthen joint work in the conservation of these species and promote sustainable practices in the management of aquatic resources.