Moving ever faster towards global traceability – In the context of the global seafood sector, product traceability has become a crucial element not only to ensure food safety, but also to maintain consumer confidence and facilitate international trade transactions. Since 2017, the Global Dialogue on Seafood Traceability (GDST) has been working to standardise and make traceability systems throughout the supply chain more effective. Its mission is simple: to create a seamless, secure and interoperable traceability ecosystem that can be adopted on a global scale.
More and more countries are recognising the importance of harmonising their data collection systems with GDST standards. This integration not only improves traceability and transparency, but also opens up new business opportunities and facilitates compliance with international regulations. Through the adoption of key data elements (KDE) and key tracking events (CTE), the GDST is laying the foundation for traceability involving every actor in the supply chain, from fishermen to exporters.
One of the key aspects to achieve these goals is the creation of digitised systems that allow for a smooth and secure exchange of information. To be competitive, companies must be able to send and receive data efficiently, responding quickly to market needs and guaranteeing the quality and safety of their products. This requires the adoption of advanced software solutions designed to be globally compatible and interoperable.
The GDST, aware of the technical and regulatory challenges companies face, has recently published new guidance documents to support the transition to a standardised traceability system. These tools, available free of charge, aim to simplify the implementation of new technologies and ensure that every actor, regardless of size or geographical location, can benefit from the advantages of a traceable global fish market.
The evolution of the GDST and the expansion of global partnerships are vital to overcome technological barriers and ensure that traceability in seafood trade becomes an established reality. The foundations laid by 2024 represent a decisive step towards a future where traceability is not just a necessity, but a shared international standard, bringing tangible benefits to consumers, businesses and governments worldwide.
This transformation, underpinned by the global adoption of GDST standards, will not only improve the transparency and accountability of the seafood industry, but also strengthen consumer confidence, facilitating stronger and more sustainable trade relationships. Ultimately, the success of GDST represents a silent revolution that is changing the way the world perceives and handles seafood products.
Moving ever faster towards global traceability
