The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development (MofFAD) has made significant progress in the first half of 2025, implementing key measures to regulate the fishing industry and promote sustainability. The Ministry has set closed seasons for industrial trawlers and semi-industrial vessels, while exempting canoe fishers, who are required to adhere to other laws.
The Ministry has also expanded the Inshore Exclusive Zone (IEZ) to 12 nautical miles or 50m depth and strengthened penalties for illegal fishing. Additionally, it has improved safety measures for vessel workers, with a new law ratified on June 9, 2025. The Ministry has prohibited harmful subsidies and reaffirmed its commitment to sustainability.
Furthermore, a bill has been passed to modernize Act 625, establishing an independent Fisheries Commission and aligning with international standards. These efforts have paid off, securing $425 million in seafood exports and averting potential EU red card sanctions.
Ruth Abla ADJORLOLO
