The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture has lifted the one-year suspension imposed on four industrial fishing vessels previously sanctioned for illegal fishing activities.
In a statement issued on Thursday, April 2, the Ministry announced that the licences of WV Long Xiang 607, WV Long Xiang 608, WV Meng Xin 10, and WV Florence 2 have been reinstated following the expiration of their suspension period on March 31, 2026.
The vessels had been barred from operating between April 1, 2025, and March 31, 2026, after being found culpable of repeated violations of Ghana’s fisheries laws, including provisions under the Fisheries Act, 2002 (Act 625) and the Fisheries Regulations, 2010.
While confirming the reinstatement, the Ministry cautioned operators of the affected vessels to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), warning that any future breaches will attract severe penalties.
It also directed the operators to renew their licences in accordance with Sections 56 to 66 of Act 1146, which govern fishing and related activities in the country.
The Ministry explained that the initial suspension served both punitive and corrective purposes and expressed hope that it would help deter illegal practices within the sector.
Reaffirming its commitment to sustainable fisheries management, the Ministry stated that it will continue working with regulatory bodies to closely monitor fishing activities and ensure compliance across Ghana’s waters.
