The Philippine government introduced regulations to limit the exploitation of juvenile mangrove crabs

The Philippines Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR) has introduced regulations to limit the exploitation of juvenile mangrove crabs and spiny lobsters species which are regularly caught for on-growing in aquaculture. Two separate administrative orders aim to regulate the trade in the two species, and members of this fishery, including growers and collectors, who have to be registered with and certified by their local authorities. The transport of mangrove crabs and spiny lobsters is also subject to a transport permitting process. The guidelines were also to address the concerns of various stakeholders including fisherfolk for the sustainable utilization of these high-value species. Suppliers are expecting the regulations to be in place until further notice from the BFAR.