Tuna fishing trawlers near Madang, Papua New Guinea - stock photo

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The firm said was taking a ‘practical and phased approach’ to implementing the commitment

Thai Union has committed to only sourcing tuna from long-distance fishing vessels with wi-fi access for their workers.

The major step means the John West owner will aim to have 50% of the tuna it sources from long-distance fishing vessels enabled with wi-fi access by the end of 2026, with the number rising to 75% by 2028.

The company said the first-of-its-kind move addressed a “critical aspect of seafarer welfare”, namely consistent and reliable access to communication. 

The initiative is specifically targeting vessels engaged in longer voyages, where isolation from family and support networks would have the most profound impact, the company said. 

“Delivering free wi-fi access is a tangible step towards improving their daily lives, allowing them to connect with loved ones, access essential information, and report grievances more easily,” said Adam Brennan, chief sustainability officer at Thai Union Group. “This reflects our belief that access to communication is an important enabler of worker empowerment and transparency across the industry, contributing to more secure livelihoods and a healthier future for families and communities.

“Our aim is for this commitment to set a new industry standard, proving the clear benefits and practical implementation of consistent connectivity.”

He added that the commitment was a “key pillar” of the multinational’s SeaChange sustainability strategy, which is now in its 10th year. 

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While Thai Union set its initial target at 50% coverage by 2026, the company said it was taking a “practical and phased approach”, and was working towards expanding access for all vessels’ crew members.

“This target reflects a realistic starting point given the technical complexities, vessel diversity, and uneven satellite coverage inherent in deploying robust connectivity at sea,” Brennan added. “Our immediate objective is to demonstrate operational feasibility and build momentum.” 

The initiative follows increased calls for better protection for tuna vessel workers including the launch of the Workers’ Voice & Grievance Mechanism by the Seafood Task Force in “direct response” to persistent challenges facing tuna crews.

Additionally, parliamentarians have urged the government to strengthen import controls over concerns that seafood linked to illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, and severe human rights abuses, was flowing into the UK.

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