Phnom Penh: Prime Minister Hun Manet of Cambodia presided over a plenary meeting of the Council of Ministers at the Peace Palace on the morning of December 6, 2024. The meeting focused on several significant agendas, including the Draft Law on Fisheries, the Draft Law on Liability for Marine Products, and various miscellaneous issues.

The primary item on the agenda, the Draft Law on Fisheries, has been prepared in response to the rapidly evolving socio-economic landscape of Cambodia, particularly concerning the management and development of the fisheries sector. This legislation is designed to enhance the sustainable management, protection, conservation, and development of fisheries resources.

By establishing clear guidelines, the draft law aims to provide numerous benefits, including the safeguarding of the rights and interests of fishermen, fishing communities, aquaculture farmers, and entrepreneurs involved in the fisheries industry. Additionally, it intends to support the implementation of a strategic plan for the fisheries sector that aligns with the policies of the Royal Government, ensuring compliance with international legal standards in light of globalization and regional integration.

Key objectives of the draft law include promoting food security, boosting the national economy, and ensuring effective management practices that facilitate the sustainable exploitation of fisheries products. The discussion at the plenary meeting underscores the government's commitment to enhancing the regulatory framework governing the fisheries sector while addressing contemporary challenges in this vital area of the economy.