Fishermen are now free to build ships and go on fishing voyages at will. However this is expected to change in the coming time. The new set of standards is designed to modernise fishing activities, guarantee product quality and better protect marine biodiversity. Accordingly, fishermen will be asked to pass several assessments and meet stricter requirements to operate fishing vessels.
The authority is planning to introduce the new law by 2020, with a vision for 2030. The Directorate of Fisheries aims to maintain total production at 1.62 million tons by 2020, reduce the older-model ships and build more advanced fishing vessels.