Somalia unveils fishing licensing, registration guidelines

Somalia has unveiled new standard operating procedures (SOPs) for licensing tuna-fishing vessels operating within the country’s nearly 1.1-million-square-kilometer exclusive economic zone, and for domestic fishing companies seeking registration, as the government seeks to align its permit-issuance process with international maritime laws and sustainable fishing practices.This government-driven licensing and registration plan, if implemented as planned, aims to support Somalia in reducing incidents of illegal activities committed by semi-industrial and industrial vessels, boosting opportunities for the country’s artisanal fishers in the process.“This initiative aims to promote sustainable fishing practices, enhance regulatory transparency, and support local economic development within Somalia’s maritime boundaries,” Somalia Fisheries Director General Abdi Dirshe said. “The introduction of these SOPs and guidelines marks a significant milestone in Somalia’s efforts to regulate its ...