The Parliament has approved an amendment to the Fisheries Act, revising Article 69, which previously banned the use of seine nets with mesh sizes smaller than 2.5 centimetres beyond 12 nautical miles. The amended provision now allows such gear under strict conditions, subject to ministerial approval based on scientific research, biannual reviews, and public consultations overseen by the National Fisheries Policy Committee.
According to the Department of Fisheries, the amendment seeks to balance marine resource conservation with the economic sustainability of fisherfolk. The revised law, which updates 71 sections of the 2015 Royal Ordinance on Fisheries, also reduces penalties, limits fishing licences to Thai nationals, restructures provincial fisheries committees, and removes overlapping labour regulations.
Environmental groups and small-scale fishers, however, have strongly opposed the changes, warning that the revised Article 69 could reintroduce destructive fishing practices that harm marine ecosystems and juvenile fish populations. They argue that the amendment benefits a small number of commercial trawlers while undermining Thailand’s commitments to sustainable fisheries.
The Act awaits publication in the Royal Gazette before taking effect. Its implementation will depend on clear subordinate legislation and consistent enforcement to ensure that Thailand’s fisheries regime achieves both ecological sustainability and economic resilience.
Amendment to the Fisheries Act – Balancing Conservation and Livelihoods_Bangkok Global Law