Government announces new fisheries bill to tackle IUU fishing, boost surveillance

Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture Development, Emelia Arthur, has revealed that a new fisheries bill aimed at strengthening Ghana’s marine governance framework is expected to be passed into law by Parliament this week.

Speaking at the opening of the 4th International Maritime Defence Exhibition and Conference (IMDEC 2025) on Tuesday, July 8, the Minister said the bill represents a major step forward in aligning Ghana’s fisheries regulations with international best practices.

The bill also seeks to improve enforcement against illegal fishing activities.

“The fisheries legal framework is undergoing a comprehensive review. A new bill is likely to be passed into law this week in Parliament,” she announced.

According to the Minister, the proposed legislation is designed to close legal loopholes, enhance transparency, and improve accountability in Ghana’s fisheries sector, particularly in the fight against illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing (IUU).

The bill is also expected to support the adoption of modern surveillance tools such as vessel monitoring systems (VMS), automatic identification systems (AIS), electronic monitoring, and catch documentation and traceability systems, to boost transparency and ensure compliance within Ghana’s exclusive economic zone.

“We are intensifying the adoption of modern fisheries management technologies to enhance enforcement. This new law will give us the legal strength to act decisively against IUU operators,” She added.

Emilia Arthur emphasised that the legislation also aligns with Ghana’s policies with continental and international frameworks such as the African Union’s 2050 Africa’s Integrated Maritime Strategy and the Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreements under the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).

She credited the Ghana Navy, Marine Police, and the Fisheries Commission for their continued support through the multi-agency Fisheries Enforcement Unit, which has carried out joint patrols and surveillance operations to combat IUU fishing.

Despite the progress, the Minister acknowledged operational challenges, including a shortage of patrol vessels, limited funding, and increased sophistication of illegal fishing operations.

She concluded by calling for sustained collaboration among stakeholders and pledged the Ministry’s continued commitment to building a sustainable blue economy through robust regulation, strategic partnership and the use of technology.

AS/EB

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