On December 28, Bancha Sukkaew, Director-General of the Department of Fisheries, announced that the Thai House of Representatives had approved in its third reading the Amendment to the 2015 Fisheries Act on December 25, 2024. The amendment addresses provisions in the original law that were outdated and burdensome for local fishermen.
Key Objectives of the Amendment
The revised law aims to:
- Regulate fisheries in Thai and international waters to prevent illegal fishing practices.
- Protect marine resources as a sustainable food source.
- Maintain environmental integrity in compliance with global standards.
- Ensure the welfare of crew members and combat illegal labor practices in the fishing industry.
- Encourage community participation and support for local fisheries.
Highlights of the New Provisions
- Adjust penalties to match the severity of offenses.
- Expand fishing zones for local small-scale fishing boats.
- Restructure provincial fisheries committees to include balanced representation.
- Require local fishing license applicants to hold Thai nationality.
- Repeal Section 34, which prohibited small-scale fishing boats from operating outside coastal zones.
- Remove redundant provisions on labor control in seafood processing factories, already covered by other laws.
Anticipated Impact
Dr. Bancha emphasized that the amendments are expected to:
- Alleviate challenges faced by fishermen by providing more equitable access to fishing zones.
- Improve the fishing industry’s compliance with international obligations and standards.
- Strengthen the sector's economic value while ensuring sustainable use of aquatic resources.
- Foster public participation, ensuring the community reaps the greatest benefits.
The amendments now proceed to the Senate for final approval. Once enacted, the law is expected to revitalize Thailand’s fisheries sector, aligning with government policies to restore the industry as a key economic driver and global food source.