PHNOM PENH — At this year’s National Fish Day on July 1, Cambodia celebrated a critical milestone in its fisheries sector, highlighting the ongoing success of the CAPFISH-Capture project, a five-year initiative aimed at promoting sustainable and responsible fisheries. As global interest in resource sustainability intensifies, Cambodia’s efforts, led by international and national collaborations, represent a significant step toward protecting its aquatic ecosystems while supporting local livelihoods.

Since its inception in 2019, the CAPFISH-Capture project has focused on addressing the dual challenges of food security and environmental preservation within Cambodia’s fisheries sector. Spearheaded by the European Union in collaboration with Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration (FiA) and the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries (MAFF), the initiative is supported by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), providing technical guidance and strategic direction.

“The fisheries industry is not only a major contributor to Cambodia’s economy but also a vital pillar for food security and community livelihoods,” said Tihamér Czika, Chargé d’affaires a.i. of the EU in Cambodia. Fisheries contribute roughly 12 percent to the nation’s GDP and serve as a primary source of income for countless communities, yet challenges such as illegal fishing, habitat degradation, and climate change continue to threaten its sustainability.

CAPFISH-Capture has achieved notable progress in enhancing fisheries management, combating illegal activities, and promoting legislative reforms aimed at long-term sustainability. A cornerstone of these efforts includes the implementation of the National Plan of Action to Combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, which targets illicit activities across both inland and marine fishing zones. Enhanced law enforcement, coupled with community education on sustainable practices, has contributed to a significant decrease in unregulated fishing activities.

Rebekah Bell, FAO Representative in Cambodia, emphasized the importance of a multifaceted approach to fisheries management. “The FAO remains committed to supporting Cambodia in advancing its fisheries sector toward sustainability,” Bell stated. “Through CAPFISH-Capture, we are witnessing a transformation in fisheries governance, strengthening both conservation efforts and economic opportunities for local communities.”

The CAPFISH-Capture project also encourages public involvement, particularly through National Fish Day celebrations, which foster awareness of conservation practices and community responsibility in safeguarding Cambodia’s aquatic resources. This public outreach is integral to the project’s long-term vision, which aims to build a sustainable fisheries sector that can withstand the pressures of modern consumption and environmental challenges.

Cambodia’s Fisheries Administration (FiA) has been instrumental in driving legislative changes under the CAPFISH framework. Key policies include stricter regulations on fishing practices, bolstered by penalties for illegal activities, and incentives for community-managed fish conservation areas. According to FiA officials, these reforms are crucial to ensuring that Cambodia’s fisheries remain viable for future generations.

As Cambodia positions itself as a model for sustainable fisheries in Southeast Asia, the CAPFISH-Capture project underscores the role of strategic partnerships and government action in achieving environmental resilience. Yet, challenges remain, particularly in addressing climate-related impacts on fish stocks and securing continued funding for conservation initiatives.

For local fishers, CAPFISH-Capture has introduced both opportunities and new responsibilities. Many have received training on sustainable fishing practices, while some have transitioned to alternative livelihoods supported by the project. “The training has changed how we think about fishing,” said a local fisherman from Siem Reap. “We now understand that sustainability is about preserving our resources for our children.”

With continued support from the EU, FAO, and other stakeholders, Cambodia’s fisheries sector is poised to advance its role in regional sustainability efforts, serving as a blueprint for other countries facing similar ecological and economic challenges. As the project moves forward, Cambodian officials and international partners remain optimistic that the CAPFISH-Capture initiative will yield long-lasting benefits for both the environment and the communities that depend on it.

In conclusion, Cambodia’s fisheries sector stands at a crossroads, with the CAPFISH-Capture project leading the way toward a sustainable future. Through careful planning, enforcement, and community engagement, Cambodia is redefining its approach to resource management, aiming to preserve its aquatic wealth for generations to come