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10 September 2007

The Minister of Environmental Affairs and Tourism has published the Policy for the Development of a Sustainable Marne Aquaculture Sector in South Africa on Friday, 7 September 2007, following the completion of a two-year intensive stakeholder engagement process.

The main purpose of the policy is to encourage acceleration of the development of the marine aquaculture industry. It is further aimed at promoting the development of an economically sustainable and globally competitive industry with minimum negative impact on the environment.

Marine Aquaculture presents an opportunity to substantially increase the diversity of economic activity in coastal areas specifically where declining fish stocks and shifts in distribution of certain fish species have led to job losses and economic hardships for people who historically found employment in the fishing industry. The industry also has potential to create skills based employment and income for coastal communities.

The key objectives are to:

* create an enabling environment that will promote the growth of marine aquaculture in South Africa and enhance the industry's contribution to economic growth
* promote transformation and broader participation in the aquaculture industry
* support and develop regulatory and management mechanisms aimed at avoiding or minimising adverse environmental impacts
* expand the resources base from a few species currently being farmed to a more diverse array of species.

The policy will be complemented by a Marine Aquaculture Development Plan which will outline strategies for its practical implementation.

The policy is available on the Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (http://www.deat.gov.za).

Contact:
Mava Scott
Cell: 082 411 9821

Carol Moses
Cell: 082 829 3917

Issued by: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism
10 September 2007
Source: Department of Environmental Affairs and Tourism (http://www.deat.gov.za)