Seafood producer Thai Union has welcomed the European Union's decision to lift the 'yellow card' on Thailand's fishing industry.
The yellow card process was introduced to induce reforms in the fishery sector in the domain of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Chief executive of Thai Union, Thiraphong Chansiri, said, "The improvements to regulation and enforcement of the fishing industry have been significant, not only in terms of traceability and the sustainable development of the fisheries but also in terms of eliminating human rights violations."
Electronic Payment
Bank accounts and electronic payments were introduced for migrant workers in the Thai fishing industry to safeguard the human rights of workers.
Global director of sustainable development at Thai Union, Dr Darian McBain, said, "We know this is effective because Thai Union transitioned workers across our global operations to electronic payments several years ago - including 100% of our workforce in Thailand."
"I can share from our [Thai Union] experience that digital payments not only promote inclusive finance but also empower women with more control over family finances. This, in turn, increases their personal security and economic empowerment."
Digital Traceability Project
Thailand's department of fisheries also initiated a digital traceability pilot project, which utilised mobile applications and satellite connectivity on Thai fishing vessels to monitor workers on vessels, and capture transparent data about the fishing activities.
In 2017, the project was implemented by the seafood giant.
Surveillance System
Last year, the government also announced a new regulation to install satellite communication system and devices, onboard Thai vessels that operate outside of Thai waters.
"It provides a platform for governments to engage the private sector on how to best combat human trafficking, forced labor, and related exploitation," McBain explained.
Thai Union owns several prominent European seafood brands, including John West, Petit Navire, Parmentier, Hawesta, Lysell, and Mareblu.
© 2019 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: European Supermarket Magazine.
