President Mahama Assents to Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025: A Landmark Step for Sustainable Fisheries in Ghana

For Immediate Release

Accra, 21st August 2025

President Mahama Assents to Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025: A Landmark Step for Sustainable Fisheries in Ghana

The President of the Republic, H.E. John Dramani Mahama, has assented to the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025, marking a historic milestone in Ghana’s fisheries governance. The new Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025, Act 1146, introduces bold reforms aimed at ensuring sustainability, compliance, and improved livelihood especially among the small-scale fishers.

The legislation, which was passed by Parliament in July 2025, represents a transformative step towards building a sustainable, equitable, and economically viable fisheries sector that meets international standards.

Key Highlights of the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act 2025, Act 1146:

•Independent Fisheries Commission: Establishment of a fully autonomous body to develop, manage, and conserve fisheries and aquaculture resources.

•Strengthen Legal and Regulatory Framework: Alignment with international best practices, enhancing Ghana’s reputation and securing access to global markets

•Safeguarding Seafood Exports: Protection of over $425 million in annual seafood exports by closing compliance gaps and avoiding trade sanctions.

•Stricter Enforcement Measures: Introduces tougher penalties against illegal fishing to restore depleted fish stocks and protect marine biodiversity.

•Protection of Fisherfolk: Improved safety, security, and welfare standards for crew and workers on fishing vessels.

•Expansion of the Inshore Exclusive Zone (IEZ): Extends the IEZ from 6 to 12 nautical miles, protecting breeding grounds and ensuring more catches, to sustain livelihoods of over 2.7 million artisanal fishers and food security.

The Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025, is a landmark law that secures Ghana’s fisheries resources, supports livelihoods, strengthens compliance with international trade standards, and positions the sector for long-term growth and sustainability.

For further clarification contact the Director PPMEB, Mr. Eric Baah on 020-255-9888 and email: eric.baah@mofad.gov.gh

END

Issued by:
Public Relations Unit
Ministry of Fisheries and Aquaculture

Kindly quote this number and date on all correspondence
My Ref. No.
Your Ref. No.
Date.
PRESS STATEMENT