The Tuvalu Fisheries Authority (TFA), through the New Zealand-funded Tuvalu Fisheries Support Programme Phase 3 (TFSP3), invites suitably qualified and experienced consulting firms to submit proposals for a Dark Vessel Detection Exercise in Tuvalu’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) and adjacent high seas areas.
The exercise aims to strengthen fisheries surveillance by using satellite-based technology to detect unlicensed fishing vessels operating in Tuvalu’s waters and vessels in adjacent high seas areas that are not reporting their positions through established monitoring systems.
Scope of the Consultancy
The selected consulting firm will conduct an intensive satellite surveillance exercise, working closely with the TFA Compliance Unit within the Oceanic Fisheries Section. The assignment is expected to require approximately 15 working days, including one week of in-country work in Tuvalu.
Key activities will include:
- Acquiring and analysing satellite imagery to detect vessels that may not be reporting through Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) or Automatic Identification Systems (AIS).
- Using RADARSAT-2 satellite imagery, supported by radio frequency (RF) data and optical imagery where conditions permit.
- Providing timely vessel detection information and map-based results to support fisheries compliance officers.
- Supporting the coordination of aerial surveillance operations and, where possible, surface patrols.
- Building the capacity of TFA officers to use and analyse satellite surveillance information.
- Preparing a technical report on the exercise, including findings and recommendations for future dark vessel detection activities.
Proposed Timing and Location
- Implementation period: February/March 2027, subject to operational arrangements.
- In-country mission: Approximately one week in Tuvalu.
- Total consultancy input: Approximately 15 working days.
- Final report: Within two weeks of completion of the exercise.
The schedule may be adjusted depending on the availability of aerial surveillance assets and other operational considerations.
Qualifications and Experience
Interested consulting firms should propose a team led by a consultant who has:
- An advanced university degree (Master’s or higher) in mathematics, physics, computing, ocean science or a related relevant field.
- Experience managing and delivering satellite data collection and analysis programmes.
- At least two years of experience managing similar projects, preferably including work in the Pacific Islands region.
Proposals will also be assessed on the quality of the technical approach, the ability to provide timely satellite imagery and suitable platforms for displaying and analysing results, and overall value for money.
Submission Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Confirmation of availability for approximately 15 working days, with flexibility for the in-country mission.
- A technical proposal addressing the requirements and explaining the proposed approach.
- Contact details for two referees.
- A detailed cost estimate covering consultancy fees, satellite data acquisition and analysis, travel to Tuvalu, and other applicable expenses.
Contracts in Australian Dollars (AUD) are strongly preferred, although other currencies may be considered. Consultants should account for the applicable 15% withholding tax in Tuvalu when preparing their fee rates. The project will provide a subsistence allowance of AUD 250 per eligible day spent in Tuvalu, subject to the agreed arrangements.
Submission Deadline
Friday, 6 November 2026, at 5:00 p.m. Tuvalu local time.
Proposals should be submitted by email to:
TFSP3 Project Manager
Email: opetaia.noa@gmail.com
For enquiries regarding this consultancy, please contact:
Michael Batty
Email: michaelb@tuvalufisheries.tv
Qualified consulting firms with relevant technical expertise are encouraged to submit their proposals to support Tuvalu’s efforts to strengthen fisheries monitoring, control and surveillance and combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
The Tuvalu Fisheries Authority reserves the right to reject any or all proposals and to negotiate with bidders where necessary.
Tuvalu Fisheries Authority (TFA)
Strengthening fisheries surveillance and promoting the sustainable management of Tuvalu’s ocean resources.