Kuwait Lifts 22-Year Mullet Fishing Ban to Boost Local Supply
Kuwait has lifted a 22-year ban on modern mullet fishing in Kuwait Bay. The decision, made under the directives of the Minister of Electricity, Water and Renewable Energy, aims to boost local supply and tackle rising prices.
The move, coordinated by Kuwait's Ministry of Commerce and Industry, Ministry of Public Health, and Kuwait Environment Public Authority, will be implemented on a trial basis. Fishing operations will be closely supervised by the Marine Control Department to ensure environmental standards are met and marine biodiversity protected.
Only 50 temporary seasonal permits will be issued, with catches capped at 400 tons per season. Fishing is restricted to live modern mullet using mid-range nets approved by the Authority, and operations are limited to specific locations and sunrise to sunset hours.
The Director General of the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources has approved this exceptional fishing measure. Officials anticipate it will stimulate Kuwait's fish market and improve consumer access to the local product.
