Cambodia’s fisheries output rises as conservation efforts strengthen food security

PHNOM PENH, July 1, 2026 (KPT) – Cambodia’s fisheries sector recorded stronger growth in 2025 as intensified enforcement against illegal fishing and expanded conservation measures boosted production, reinforced food security and underlined agriculture’s role as a key pillar of the economy, officials said Wednesday.

Speaking at National Fish Day, Agriculture Minister Dith Tina said the sector contributed 16 percent of GDP last year while ensuring food security. Total fisheries output reached 978,560 tonnes in 2025, up 5.6 percent from 2024. Freshwater catches rose 10 percent to 514,830 tonnes, marine fisheries produced 140,160 tonnes and aquaculture contributed 323,570 tonnes.

The ministry said stronger crackdowns on illegal fishing drove the increase, with authorities, armed forces, local administrations and fishing communities working together. Improved stocks led to higher catches for households using traditional gear, while rare species such as trey trasak and trey kbak reappeared, signalling healthier ecosystems.

Conservation efforts also yielded results for wildlife. Eight Irrawaddy dolphin calves were born in 2025 with no deaths, while six more arrived in the first half of 2026, bringing the Mekong population to 117. Protected dolphin habitats and fisheries zones have been formally registered as state public land.

Along the coast, 2,152 artificial reef units have been deployed to restore marine habitats, while vessel monitoring systems installed on 1,515 boats have improved oversight. Seagrass ecosystems and fish stocks have recovered, with dugongs reappearing after a decade and dolphin populations rising past 100.

Tina said sustainable fisheries management would continue to protect aquatic resources while supporting livelihoods and long‑term growth.