President John Mahama has signed the Fisheries and Aquaculture Bill, 2025, into law, ushering in what the government describes as a new era of sustainability, compliance, and improved livelihoods in Ghana’s fisheries sector.

The Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), which was passed by Parliament in July, introduces sweeping reforms aimed at protecting marine resources, enhancing the welfare of fisherfolk, and safeguarding Ghana’s seafood exports valued at more than $425 million annually.

Among its key provisions is the establishment of an Independent Fisheries Commission, mandated to oversee the development, management, and conservation of fisheries and aquaculture resources.

The law also expands Ghana’s Inshore Exclusive Zone (IEZ) from six to 12 nautical miles, protecting breeding grounds and ensuring better catches for over 2.7 million artisanal fishers.

The Act aligns Ghana’s regulatory framework with international best practices, closing compliance gaps that have previously exposed the country to potential trade sanctions.

It also introduces stricter penalties against illegal fishing, aimed at restoring depleted fish stocks and preserving marine biodiversity.

In addition, the legislation enhances the safety, security, and welfare of fishing crews and workers, ensuring higher labour standards across the sector.

The Ministry says the new law marks a transformative step toward building a sustainable, equitable, and economically viable fisheries industry that not only strengthens food security but also secures the livelihoods of millions of Ghanaians.