Cambodia Imposes Five‑Month Fishing Ban to Protect Mekong Stocks

STUNG TRENG, Cambodia, May 5, 2026 (KPT) — Authorities in northern Cambodia have announced a five‑month seasonal fishing ban along the Mekong River to safeguard fish stocks during the breeding period.

The Stung Treng Provincial Administration said the closure runs from May 1 to September 30 across designated areas, in line with Cambodia’s Fisheries Law and a 2013 directive from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries aimed at protecting spawning fish.

Gillnets will be prohibited during the ban, though subsistence fishing with small‑scale traditional gear such as traps, cast nets, hook‑and‑line methods and bamboo fish traps will remain permitted.

Officials reiterated a strict ban on destructive practices including electric shocks, poison and explosives, warning violators face prosecution.

Authorities said the annual restriction is vital to preserve aquatic biodiversity and ensure the long‑term sustainability of fisheries, a key source of food and income for communities along the Mekong.

Fisheries officials reported strengthened enforcement in 2025, with eight suspects sent to court over offences.

More than 33,000 metres of gillnets, 12,000 hooks and illegal equipment including boats, engines and electric devices were confiscated, while several unlawful fishing structures were dismantled.

Officials said 69 fishermen signed compliance agreements and 257 others received education on fisheries protection.

The administration urged residents to respect the rules and support conservation efforts for future generations.