The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries announced on the 9th that it has established the third basic plan for fishing promotion, which includes the consideration of introducing fishing-only boats and improving the functions of the fishing vessel passenger management system.
The basic plan for fishing promotion is a mid-to-long-term plan established every five years for the development of fishing and fishing-related industries in accordance with the Fishing Management and Promotion Act. Through this basic promotion plan, the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has set four main goals: creating a safer fishing environment, realizing field-centered fishing policies, spreading a healthy fishing culture, and building a foundation for fostering the fishing industry. The ministry plans to implement ten tasks to achieve these goals in stages.
Specifically, measures include strengthening fishing vessel safety management, promoting the development and introduction of fishing-only boats, and improving the fishing vessel passenger management system through integration with geographic information systems (GIS). Additionally, to minimize conflicts between fishermen and anglers, a quota allocation system will be gradually introduced and a fishing license system will be considered. The introduction of transplanted species will be expanded for operating fishing grounds during periods of high water temperature. There are also plans to reduce the discharge of fishing litter, designate special zones for fishing leisure, and promote public-private cooperative projects.
The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries explained that this plan has been prepared to respond to rapidly changing marine environments and fishing culture changes, promote the sustainable growth of the fishing industry, and establish a healthy fishing culture.
According to the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries, as of last year, approximately 4,000 fishing vessels were in operation, and the annual number of fishing vessel users reached about 5 million, with a total fishing population of 7.2 million. However, as fishing activities increase, the catch volume has also increased, leading to conflicts with fishermen in some areas, and there is a growing call for the management of fisheries resources. Additionally, an annual average of 313 fishing vessel safety accidents have occurred over the past five years, underscoring the increased importance of safety management in fishing activities. The ministry believes that the third fishing promotion plan will improve fishing culture and create a better fishing industry.
Kang Do-hyung, the Minister of Oceans and Fisheries, stated, “The third basic plan for fishing promotion has prioritized public safety and addressed field needs while focusing on creating a sustainable fishing culture and industry.” The minister added, “We will do our best to create an environment where all citizens can enjoy fishing safely and enjoyably.”