Gambiaj.com – (BISSAU, Guinea-Bissau) – The transitional government has imposed an immediate nationwide ban on the production of fishmeal and fish oil, citing threats to marine ecosystems and food security.

In a directive issued on January 29, 2026 (Dispatch No. 16), the Ministry of Fisheries and Maritime Economy ordered the suspension of fishmeal and fish oil production by factory vessels operating within the fishing zone as well as by industrial processing units on land.

The decision also prohibits the authorization of new applications for pelagic fishing licenses and all related operations intended to supply factory vessels dedicated to fishmeal and fish oil production.

In addition, artisanal fishing boats are increasingly barred from supplying fish to onshore units involved in the processing of fishmeal and fish oil.

The ministry warned that any violation of the ban will attract legal sanctions under Article 63 of the General Fisheries Law, which addresses unauthorized fishing, as well as Article 70 of the same legislation.

According to the government, fishmeal and fish oil production has expanded at an alarming rate across the country, driven by the proliferation of industrial plants in several locations and by factory vessels operating within fishing zones and adjacent areas.

The ministry stressed that the practice poses a serious threat to pelagic fish species and undermines the balance of the marine ecosystem. It also highlighted the direct impact on national food and nutritional security.

Transforming fish into animal feed, the government noted, directly competes with fish intended for human consumption, reducing the availability of a key food source for the population.

“Using fish for the production of fishmeal and fish oil hinders the population’s access to an essential resource for its nourishment,” the directive warned.

Authorities say the ban is part of broader efforts to protect marine resources and safeguard food security amid growing pressure on fish stocks.