EFFORTS are continuing to monitor marine violations and promote sustainable fishing practices, Oil and Environment Minister Dr Mohammed Bin Daina has told the National Assembly in writing.
In response to a question by Shura Council member Fuad Al Haji on marine protection measures, the minister reaffirmed commitment to monitor and address violations of marine resource regulations.
He highlighted ongoing co-ordination between the General Directorate of Marine Resources at the Supreme Council for the Environment (SCE) and the Coastguard to enforce compliance, while referring violators to the Public Prosecution for legal action.
He cited the 2002 Fishing Organisation, Catching and Protection Law which outlines the legal framework for the sustainable use and protection of marine resources.
“This law identifies practices such as overfishing, the use of illegal fishing tools, the capture of juvenile fish and activities in protected marine areas as violations,” he said.
“These activities are deemed harmful to marine ecosystems, including coral reefs and fish habitats.”
The minister said in 2024, enforcement operations addressed several infractions, including:
* The sale and trade of shrimp during prohibited seasons.
* The fishing, sale and trade of juvenile fish and crustaceans.
* Unlicensed fishing activities.
* The use and presence of unlicensed or illegal fishing traps.
“We have ongoing campaigns to remove unlicensed fishing traps as part of broader enforcement efforts,” he said.
The minister stressed the importance of advanced oversight in marine resource trade.
“Through electronic integration with Customs Affairs, it ensures smart monitoring of marine imports and exports.
“This includes verifying the legality and safety of imported fish, preventing the entry of prohibited fishing tools, and collaborating with the Cybercrime Directorate at the Interior Ministry to track and address online sales of illegal fishing equipment.”
He explained that to minimise violations, the ministry has implemented extensive educational initiatives.
“Regular meetings and workshops with fishermen’s associations aim to improve awareness of laws and regulations.
“These sessions emphasise the significance of preserving marine resources and encourage fishermen to actively participate in monitoring activities.
“Additionally, awareness campaigns are disseminated through announcements, media outlets, and social media platforms to educate the public on marine violations and appropriate fishing practices.”
Dr Bin Daina said using prohibited fishing tools, such as bottom trawl nets and ‘hyali’ nets, remains one of the most significant violations. “Awareness and education campaigns play a fundamental role in reducing such infractions.”
He underscored the importance of enforcing temporary fishing bans and organising joint inspection campaigns with other governmental entities to curb violations.
“Efforts include updating national regulations related to marine resources, such as standards for fishing equipment and methods, as well as revising penalties to align with developments in the sector.
“Additionally, the ministry announced plans to introduce legislation regulating recreational fishing.
“This initiative aims to prevent misuse or violations by amateur fishermen.”
Dr Bin Daina said a smart monitoring centre equipped with an Automatic Identification System (AIS) is also being developed in collaboration with the Survey and Land Registration Bureau to enhance surveillance capabilities.
“We are dedicated to the sustainable management of Bahrain’s marine resources.
“By combining legal enforcement, technological integration, and educational outreach, it seeks to balance economic activity with environmental preservation.
“Our marine resources are a national treasure, and their protection requires co-operation from all stakeholders.”
He added that through strict monitoring, improved regulations, and continuous awareness campaigns, we aim to ensure their sustainability for future generations.
MPs have been notified about the response during their weekly session yesterday.
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