Continuation of multi-Member research on the Dissostichus spp. exploratory fishery in East Antarctica (Divisions 58.4.1 and 58.4.2) by Australia (notification ID 98422, 98423), France (94903, 94904), Japan (94886, 94887), Republic of Korea (94889, 94890) and Spain (94835)

Exploratory fishing for toothfish (Dissostichus spp.) in East Antarctica (Divisions 58.4.1 and 58.4.2) began in 2003. Robust stock assessments and catch limits according to CCAMLR decision rules remain to be determined for these Divisions. WG-FSA-16/29 outlines the first multi-member toothfish exploratory fishery research plan for East Antarctica, including research objectives, methods and milestones in accordance with ANNEX 24-01/A. In 2016, the Scientific Committee agreed that the research plan was appropriate to achieve its objectives (SC-CAMLR-XXXV, para. 3.244). We present here a proposal for the continuation of the research plan as set out in WG-FSA-16/29. All significant changes to the plan are outlined in Section A. A summary of data collection in 2016/17 (Section B), and issues arising from the 2016/17 season (Section C) are also provided.