South Africa, Chile strengthen partnership to advance sustainable fisheries and aquaculture

SOUTH AFRICA – The governments of South Africa and Chile have signed a groundbreaking memorandum of understanding (MoU) to foster long-term collaboration and promote sustainable fisheries and aquaculture. 

The agreement, signed on November 6, 2024, focuses on enhancing the responsible management of marine resources, improving food security, and driving economic growth through innovations in the fisheries sector. 

Both countries recognise the critical importance of these industries to their economies and are committed to working together to achieve sustainable development.

The MoU marks a significant step in strengthening bilateral relations and builds on previous discussions initiated during the 2016 Joint Trade and Investment Commission. 

The partnership will see the establishment of a Joint Technical Committee to oversee the implementation of key initiatives, ensuring continuous cooperation between the two countries. 

This committee will also facilitate regular bilateral meetings to evaluate progress and coordinate actions in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.

The primary areas of cooperation outlined in the MoU include:

Research and scientific advancements

Both countries will support joint research efforts to promote sustainable practices in fisheries and aquaculture. 

The focus will be on scientific advancements that can enhance productivity while ensuring environmental protection and resource conservation.

Technology and best practices exchange

The partnership will facilitate the exchange of modern aquaculture technologies and responsible farming methods. 

This exchange will help both nations improve farming efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and boost overall industry competitiveness.

Capacity building and knowledge sharing

A key objective of the MoU is to improve expertise in both small-scale and industrial fisheries management. This will include enhancing regulatory frameworks, enforcement measures, and best practices in fisheries management.

Combatting illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing 

Both countries will intensify efforts to combat IUU fishing, which poses significant threats to marine resources. The countries will work together on joint initiatives to address fisheries-related crimes and strengthen enforcement to ensure the long-term sustainability of their fishing industries.

The two countries are also committed to engaging with international forums and regional fisheries management organisations to uphold global best practices and principles of sustainable resource management. 

This partnership aligns with global efforts to protect marine biodiversity and ensure that future generations can continue to benefit from these vital resources.

Deputy Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment in South Africa, Narend Singh, emphasised that the partnership’s focus on responsible and sustainable fisheries management will create new opportunities for development and innovation in the region. 

He added, “This MoU establishes a formal framework for cooperation, ensuring that marine resources are managed responsibly and sustainably for the benefit of both countries.”

Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.