Fisheries Ministry ends suspension on vessels cited for repeated violations

The Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture has lifted a one-year suspension on four fishing vessels sanctioned for repeated illegal activities.

In a statement released by the Public Affairs Unit of the ministry on Thursday, the affected vessels, WV Long Xiang 607, WV Long Xiang 608, WV Meng Xin 10, and WV Florence 2, had their fishing operating licenses restored following the expiration of the sanction period.

“The one-year suspension of fishing operating licenses for the vessel has officially been lifted,” the ministry announced, confirming the end of the enforcement action.

The suspension, which lasted from April 1, 2025, to March 31, 2026, was imposed after the vessels were found to have engaged in repeated illegal fishing practices. Authorities said the infractions breached provisions of the defunct Fisheries Act, 2002 (Act 625), as well as Regulations 32(1) and 32(2) of the Fisheries Regulations, 2010 (L.I. 1968).

Explaining the decision, the ministry noted that the sanction period had elapsed as earlier communicated, prompting the restoration of the vessels’ licenses. “With the expiration of the sanction, the Ministry has lifted the suspension on the affected vessels’ licenses,” the statement said.

It added that the enforcement action was intended to correct misconduct within the sector.

“The Ministry expects that this enforcement action has served as a deterrent and a corrective measure,” it stated.

Despite the reinstatement, operators have been cautioned to strictly adhere to Ghana’s fisheries laws.

The ministry reminded them “to strictly comply with all provisions” of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), alongside other applicable regulations.

The statement also urged vessel operators to regularise their documentation.

“They are further advised to take the necessary steps to renew their fishing licenses in accordance with the prescribed procedures,” it added.

Reinforcing its regulatory stance, the ministry warned that monitoring efforts would continue.

It stressed its commitment to sustainable fisheries management and indicated that “any future violations will attract the full rigors of the law.”