The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture and the Fisheries Commission have suspended the fishing licences of four industrial trawl vessels operating within Ghana’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) due to repeated violations of the Fisheries Act, 2002 (Act 625) and the Fisheries Regulations, 2010 (L.I. 1968).
According to a press release issued by the Public Affairs Unit of the Ministry the affected vessels, Meng Xin 10 (owned by Nassa Co. Ltd.), Florence 2 (owned by Akrafi Fisheries), Long Xiang 607 and Long Xiang 608 (owned by Wannimas Complex Co. Ltd.) were involved in multiple illegal fishing practices.
These included unauthorised transshipment, dumping of fish, fishing in restricted zones, and harvesting of juvenile fish, all of which pose significant threats to Ghana’s marine ecosystem, efforts toward sustainable fisheries management, and the livelihoods of coastal fishing communities.
The statement explained that, in line with Sections 76(1) and 76(2) of the Fisheries Act, 2002 (Act 625), which grants the Minister the authority to suspend licences of vessels engaged in repeated illegal activities, the vessels have had their licences suspended for twelve months, effective April 1, 2025.
Ghana’s fisheries sector continues to face challenges from overfishing and Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing activities, which not only harm marine biodiversity but also diminish the income of artisanal fishers and threaten national food security.
The ministry stressed that illegal transshipment, commonly known as Saiko, has significantly contributed to the depletion of key fish stocks and has undermined efforts to maintain proper marine governance.
The statement further pointed out that Section 132 of Act 625 criminalizes illegal transshipment, while Regulation 33(2) of L.I. 1968 specifically prohibits transshipment between industrial vessels and canoes.
It emphasized that these violations not only breach domestic laws but also go against international commitments and hinder Ghana’s progress in achieving Sustainable Development Goal 14, which focuses on the conservation and sustainable use of ocean resources.
Despite ongoing stakeholder engagements, educational campaigns, and regulatory reforms, the ministry noted that some industrial fishing operators continue to disregard the law.
It reaffirmed its commitment to strictly enforcing fisheries regulations to protect Ghana’s marine resources.
The ministry also cautioned all fishing operators, industrial, semi-industrial, and artisanal to adhere strictly to legal provisions, warning that continued violations would result in sanctions such as licence suspensions, cancellations, and possible legal action.
Reiterating its mission, the ministry assured that it remains dedicated to promoting responsible and sustainable fisheries management in Ghana for the benefit of both present and future generations.
