Govt suspends licenses of four industrial vessels for illegal fishing

The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture Development and the Fisheries Commission made a declaration about the suspension of fishing licences for four large-scale fishing boats operating within the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of Ghana due to persistent offenses of the Fisheries Act, 2002 (Act 625), as well as the Fisheries Regulations 2010 (L.I. 1968).

The vessels involved Meng X in 10 ( under the auspices of Nassa Co. Ltd.), Florence 2 (under the auspices of Akrafi Fisheries). The Long Xiang 607 and Long Xiang 608 (owned by Wannimas Complex Co. Ltd.).

These vessels were discovered to be engaged in various illegal fishing activities such as illicit transloading, dumping of fish, fishing in protected areas, and harvesting juvenile fish.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture in an official announcement released on Tuesday April 1 highlighted that these activities has raised serious threats to Ghana’s marine ecosystem, undermine environmental sustainability of fisheries management, and adversely impact the well-being of coastal fishing communities.

As per Sections 76(1) and 76(2) of the Fisheries Act, that provide the Minister authority to revoke permits for recurring violations, the affected vessels’ licenses are suspended for a period of 12 months, commencing April 1, 2025.

Unlawful fishing activities, especially transfer of cargo (locally known as Saiko), have been a persistent problem for Ghana’s fisheries industry. These activities reduce fish population, decrease income of local fishers, and threaten national food security.

The Ministry reaffirmed its dedication to strict enforcement of fisheries laws to maintain healthy marine ecosystem. The ministry warned that “Continued violations will attract sanctions, including license suspensions, cancellations, and legal action.” It also encouraged all seafood producers, semi-industrial, and artisanal to adhere to regulations.

Regardless of continued stakeholder engagement and regulatory reforms, some operators are still operating without accountability. The Ministry stressed how they are going to promoting sustainable fisheries management for the benefit of present and future generations.

Below is a Press Statement :