This dataset delineates the Western and Central Pacific Ocean (WCPO) statistical area, representing the broader oceanic region encompassing Pacific Island Countries and Territories. The WCPO is a key area for global tuna fisheries, containing the world's largest and most valuable tuna stocks. This boundary supports statistical reporting, stock assessments, and regional fisheries management activities coordinated by the Pacific Community (SPC) Oceanic Fisheries Programme and the Forum Fisheries Agency (FFA). The dataset was created by the SPC GEM team to support Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) operations and regional fisheries surveillance. These Regional Fisheries Management Organisations operate under the framework of the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS) Part VII (High Seas) and the UN Fish Stocks Agreement (UNFSA) 1995, which mandate international cooperation for the conservation and management of straddling and highly migratory fish stocks.
