South Africa’s hake fishing industry stands to lose 5,000 jobs and its multi-million rand export markets with the government’s termination of the on-board observer program.
The observers, independent operators paid by the fisheries department, sail on the hake trawlers to ensure they comply with laws and their quotas, and also to gather scientific data about the fish caught. On-board observers are a requirement if the industry wants to retain its Marine Stewardship Council certification.
There have been no observers on hake fishing vessels since the end of last year when the contract with the Department of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries expired and no new contract was signed.
The hake industry generates about R5 billion in economic value, half of which is generated through exports.
If SA loses its Marine Stewardship Council certification, it loses those lucrative international markets.
