Fisheries Act revised amid objections

Experts say changes put stocks at risk

- APINYA WIPATAYOTIN

Parliament has approved a controversial amendment to the Fisheries Act, a move the Department of Fisheries insists will balance marine conservation with the livelihoods of fisherfolk.

The House of Representatives passed the bill on Sept 17, despite objections from senators in February over Article 69.

The Department of Fisheries has defended the change, stressing the article was not removed but revised with additional safeguards.

Under the current Article 69, the use of seine nets with mesh sizes smaller than 2.5 centimetres is banned for nighttime fishing beyond 12 nautical miles.

The amended version allows their use under certain conditions starting 12 nautical miles from the shore.

Environmental groups and fisherfolk have warned this change could damage marine ecosystems and undermine Thailand's international commitments on sustainable fishing.