The seminar "Development of Traditional Fishing Vessels: Towards a More Efficient and Sustainable Fleet" was held on Wednesday in Duqm, Al Wusta Governorate, Oman. The aim of this event was to introduce developmental programs, examine legal and financial procedures for transferring ownership from individual to institutional ownership, and discuss the state of the fishing industry in this region.
The Economic and Social Importance of the Fishing Industry
This seminar was organized by the General Directorate of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources of Al Wusta and reflects the economic and social importance of the fishing industry for this governorate. Al Wusta, with a population of nearly 4,724 fishermen and 100 traditional fishing vessels, is recognized as one of the important centers of this industry.
During this meeting, papers were presented examining the state of the fishing industry in the Al Wusta, North Sharqiyah, and South Sharqiyah governorates of Oman, the services provided to fishermen and vessel owners, and the challenges and opportunities available for development. These papers clearly emphasized the need for investment in the fishing industries and the enhancement of the added value of seafood products.
Investment in Fishing Industries and Food Security
The seminar addressed the importance of investing in fishing industries, increasing the added value of seafood products, and improving working conditions on vessels to support food security. The traditional fishing vessels program aims to maintain and develop the existing fleet in line with standards, enhance equipment, security, and safety facilities, and, if necessary, issue work permits for foreign labor while creating job opportunities for Omanis.
Given the emphasis on the necessity of developing this sector, this seminar was a suitable opportunity to explore innovative solutions and create a roadmap for the future of the fishing industry in Oman. Participants in this event exchanged views on the challenges and opportunities available and sought solutions to improve the state of this industry.
