Major fines for using illegal fishing nets
March 10, 2026 10:17 pm | Posted in Business News | Share now TwitterFacebook
Compiled by Terence Malapa.
A public warning has been issued to fishers and shop owners that the use or sale of illegal fishing nets could result in fines of up to VT50,000 for individuals and VT100,000 for companies.
The warning is issued by the Vanuatu Fisheries Department under the Fisheries Regulations Order No. 28 of 2009, with updated penalty notices under the Fisheries Regulations No. 77 of 2016.
Under the regulations, a person must not use a drag net or beach seine net with a mesh size of less than 50 millimetres when fully stretched.
Fishers are also prohibited from using a cast net with a mesh size of less than 20 millimetres when fully stretched, or a cast net with a radius exceeding two metres.
The Fisheries Department explained that small mesh nets can seriously harm fish stocks because they catch young fish before they have time to reproduce.
A department spokesperson said these juvenile fish are also small and have little value in the market, making the practice harmful to both the environment and fishers’ future livelihoods.
Authorities warned that inspections will be carried out in fishing communities and shops to ensure compliance with the regulations. Anyone found using, selling, or possessing prohibited nets may have their equipment confiscated and face fines under the law.
Director of Fisheries William Naviti said that fishers and shop owners must immediately stop using or selling illegal nets and dispose of them responsibly.
He also called on community leaders, teachers and parents to help raise awareness and encourage responsible and sustainable fishing practices within their communities.
The department said these measures are aimed at protecting fish stocks, supporting sustainable livelihoods, and safeguarding Vanuatu’s marine resources for future generations.
