A groundbreaking new study is drawing attention to the treatment of migrant workers in the tuna processing sector, revealing major recruitment issues that could affect the entire global seafood supply chain. The Responsible Recruitment Tuna study was unveiled during the Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona, Spain, and is being praised as a major step forward in addressing long-standing human rights concerns in the industry.
The report, officially titled A Study into the Implementation of Responsible Recruitment Practices and the Employer Pays Principle (EPP) in the Global Tuna Processing Sector, was launched at an event hosted by the Seafood Ethics Action Alliance (SEA Alliance). It lays out clear recommendations to promote better working conditions and responsible recruitment, especially for migrant workers who form a large part of the workforce in shore-based tuna processing.
Georgia Worrall, head of SEA Alliance, shared that the study was commissioned in response to rising concerns within the industry. A total of 39 leading UK retailers and seafood companies came together with several international seafood groups to fund the research. The study was conducted independently by consultancy firm Impactt, and backed by organizations including the British Retail Consortium, Food Network for Ethical Trade, Global Tuna Alliance, and the Seafood Business for Ocean Stewardship.
Principal consultants David Rousseau and Priyanka Kanani from Impactt, who led the study, revealed findings that highlight the difficulties in enforcing labour standards for migrant workers. The study looked closely at five key countries — the Maldives, Mauritius, the Philippines, Seychelles, and Thailand — examining each one’s regulatory systems, workforce conditions, and recruitment methods.
Through stakeholder interviews and field research, the study offers insight into the realities faced by migrant workers. It identifies widespread challenges and provides tailored, actionable advice for companies and associations looking to improve labour conditions. The recommendations stress the importance of responsible recruitment and call for all actors across the supply chain to adopt the Employer Pays Principle — ensuring that workers are not burdened with recruitment fees.
SEA Alliance stated that the study proves just how urgently governments, private companies, and industry bodies need to work together. It calls for a united response to eliminate abusive practices and ensure that all workers in the seafood sector are treated fairly and ethically.
Daniel Suddaby, executive director of the Global Tuna Alliance, voiced strong support for the study’s findings. He said the alliance will promote the study’s recommendations as part of its commitment to strengthening responsible recruitment across the tuna industry. He emphasized that protecting workers’ rights is essential to building a more ethical and sustainable seafood supply chain.
The Responsible Recruitment Tuna study is now seen as a key resource for improving labour standards globally, urging immediate action to ensure fair treatment of migrant workers and prevent exploitation within the tuna processing sector.