Department of Fisheries’ Efforts to Comply with NOAA/MMPA Rules and Regulations

The Department of Fisheries has been actively enforcing the rules and regulations outlined in the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA) by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) since 2018. To protect endangered marine species and sea turtles, the Department of Fisheries issued Directive No. 6/2018 on June 1, 2018, mandating the installation of Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs) in trawl nets. The directive came into effect on September 1, 2019, with the start of the 2019-2020 fishing season. Trawl fishing vessels are permitted to go to sea only after inspection teams confirm the installation of TEDs.

            Currently, (One stop service) inspection teams from various departments conduct pre-departure and at-sea inspections. Additionally, the Tatmadaw (Navy), Myanmar Coast Guard, and Myanmar Maritime Police conduct regular inspections to ensure TED compliance.

            During the 2021-2022 fishing season, eight shrimp fishing vessels from Rakhine State and the Tanintharyi Region were caught operating without TEDs, and fines were imposed. The penalty for fishing without TEDs has been increased to 1,000,000 kyats, replacing the previous fine of 500,000 kyats.

            The Department of Fisheries remains committed to strict compliance with both local and international regulations. Fishermen and fishing vessel operators are urged to adhere to the laws and directives issued by the Department.

            By enforcing these regulations, the Department aims to promote responsible fishing practices, ensure sustainable marine fisheries, and protect rare aquatic species, including amphibians.

         (Fisheries Management Division, DOF)