A limit to the effectiveness of exclusive zones for fisheries manageme
nt is the problem of transboundary impacts of harvesting. Recent devel
opment of this question and its analysis from an economic perspective
are reviewed. Extending the scope of the bioeconomic approach implies
increased uncertainty concerning the dynamics of the fisheries conside
red. Adherence to an optimal harvest plan depending on agreement on a
''best'' model of these dynamics, uncertainty may prevent co-operation
where the model chosen influences the distribution of benefits derive
d from the resource. Elements of a case study are used to illustrate t
hese issues, and the importance of management procedures for the regul
ation of these fisheries is underlined. (C) 1997 Elsevier Science Ltd.