Achieving greater equity in allocation of catch shares: A case study in China

The allocation of catch shares among fishing entities is a key element total allowable control system. Current schemes fall short in their ability terms ensuring fairness and feasibility there much scope for improvement. In this study, new method based on applying relative deprivation coefficient introduced into the shares, demonstrated case study involving 11 coastal provinces China. Advantages process quota comparison with well-established methods were investigated. Compared conventional single-criterion approach simple multi-criteria-based equal weights, scheme integrating weighting multi-criteria showed superior performance rendering outcomes fairer more reasonable, Gini below 0.2. Quota proportions under newly developed between maximum minimum ratios those using single-criterion, which shows strong utility reducing rigidity improving acceptability results. This offers viable yet alternative facilitating sustainable fisheries via management provides reference policy makers equitably allocating shares.