Foreign Fishing Vessel Entry Regulations Gazetted

Posted 22 August 2025 Written by Acts Online
Category Fisheries & Aquaculture

Brought to you by SA Legal Academy: The Department of Forestry, Fisheries & the Environment (DFFE) has published regulations regarding the entry of foreign fishing vessels into South African waters, aimed at strengthening maritime security and resource management.

In terms of the Marine Living Resources Act, No. 18 of 1998, these regulations are now immediately effective following a multi-year consultation process. The regulatory framework was initially released in draft form in January 2023 for public comment, followed by a revised version gazetted in February 2025 to incorporate stakeholder input.

The regulations are designed to curb illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing while ensuring South Africa’s compliance with international port state measures. The provisions apply to any foreign fishing vessel intending to enter South African territorial waters or utilize local port facilities.

Key Regulatory Provisions

  • Entry Requirements: Specific protocols for foreign vessels seeking permission to enter the South African Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ).
  • Notification Protocols: Mandatory advance notification periods and documentation requirements for vessels prior to arrival.
  • Inspection and Compliance: Enhanced powers for fisheries branch officials to conduct inspections and verify catches against international quotas.
  • Administrative Procedures: Standardised forms and filing requirements for vessel owners and operators.

What this means for you, your business, or your clients

  • For yourself: No direct individual obligations; impact is channelled through professional advisory roles for maritime, environmental, and international trade law practitioners.
  • For your business: Maritime law firms and shipping agencies must immediately update internal compliance checklists and standard operating procedures to align with the new entry and inspection protocols for foreign-flagged clients.
  • For your clients: Foreign fishing vessel operators and owners must ensure that all pre-entry notifications and required documentation are submitted to the DFFE within the prescribed timeframes to avoid vessel detention or administrative penalties.

Originally published at https://legalacademy.co.za/news/read/foreign-fishing-vessels-regulations-gazetted-on-entering-sa-waters

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