Marine fisheries management in Cambodia: Offshore fisheries sustainable development

This study examines marine fisheries sector in Cambodia, especially the offshore fishery which provides the potential for further exploitation.; The report introduces the Cambodian fishery sector including economic, resources, harvesting, processing and marketing. It then focusses on the offshore marine fishery and its future.; The fishing industry was the activity that provided the original basis for the economic development of Cambodia. Due to lack of investment, there are few Cambodian offshore vessels and there is no offshore patrol capability in Fisheries. Consequently there is little enforcement of legislation and foreign vessels are able to fish unhindered. Cambodia is trying to address this situation by encouraging fishers to invest in this area and displace the foreign fishers. At the same time, due to lack of investment and ability to harvest offshore, Cambodia actively seeks joint ventures with other countries to exploit the resources.; The report concluded that, if properly managed, the offshore fishery can add significantly to the country's food supply and economy. Proper management will depend on: the collection and analysis of ecological information and accurate harvesting data; creation and enforcement of appropriate regulations; and strengthening of human resource development for the sector.