Thai Union Group announced on March 12 that it will provide free Wi-Fi access on fishing vessels as part of its ongoing SeaChange sustainability strategy. The company aims to have half of the tuna it sources from long-distance fishing vessels equipped with Wi-Fi by the end of 2026, and increase this coverage to 75 percent by 2028.
The initiative is intended to improve the welfare of fishers, particularly those working on long voyages who often face isolation from their families and support networks. Thai Union said that consistent and reliable communication is a critical aspect of seafarer welfare, and enabling connectivity supports ethical and safety standards in the industry.
Adam Brennan, Chief Sustainability Officer at Thai Union Group, 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.” Brennan added: “As we mark 10 years of our SeaChange sustainability strategy, the people behind it remain central to its ongoing evolution. This commitment represents the next level of SeaChange, demonstrating how we are continually evolving and moving with technology to support the people working at sea. 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. 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.”
The company explained that its initial target focuses on vessels undertaking longer trips at sea where crew members are most isolated. While aiming for 50 percent coverage by 2026, Thai Union plans a phased approach due to technical challenges such as vessel diversity and uneven satellite coverage. Brennan said: “This target reflects a realistic starting point given the technical complexities, vessel diversity, and uneven satellite coverage inherent in deploying robust connectivity at sea. Our immediate objective is to demonstrate operational feasibility and build momentum.”
According to Thai Union Group, this move makes it the first global seafood processor to commit publicly to providing free Wi-Fi for fishers at scale. The company hopes this will set a new benchmark for human welfare in seafood supply chains while supporting broader efforts in ethical recruitment practices and community development.
Looking ahead, Thai Union says its work will continue alongside local communities as part of its holistic approach—strengthening both human ecosystems and marine environments.