The Samoan Prime Minister has warned the Pacific fishing nations to agree to new fishing conservation measures or face the same fate as other regions.
Tuilaepa Sailele Malielegaoi is hosting the meeting of the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission, known as the Tuna Commission, and says in other parts of the world, fisheries have collapsed due to overfishing.
Conservation groups say the problem of illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing on the high seas continue to threaten the fish stocks despite efforts by national fisheries administrations and regional organisations.
Tuilaepa singled out southern albacore as being in particular danger, but says it's also about preserving local jobs for fishermen.
"It is important that stronger and more effective fisheries management arrangements for the South Pacific albacore are agreed at this meeting."
Samoa yesterday signed the Tokelau arrangement which would set catch limits for South Pacific albacore.
