During today's session of the extraordinary session of the Milli Majlis (National Assembly), the draft law "On Fisheries" was approved in the first reading.
According to the Operative Information Center-OMM, the document establishes the legal framework for the organization, management, and regulation of fishing, including the harvesting of fish and other aquatic bioresources, as well as aquaculture practices. It further outlines the legal requirements for the enhancement, utilization, and protection of these vital natural resources in Azerbaijan.
The legislative framework for fisheries is comprehensive, integrating provisions from the Constitution, international treaties to which Azerbaijan is a party, the Water Code, and various laws concerning food safety, wildlife, breeding, veterinary medicine, and sanitary-epidemiological welfare. This holistic approach ensures that the management of aquatic bioresources aligns with broader environmental and safety standards.
The law specifically addresses the organization of fishing in the Azerbaijani sector of the Caspian Sea, as well as in transboundary water bodies, ensuring that all activities comply with both national legislation and international legal norms. Furthermore, the regulation of fisheries within the Alat Free Economic Zone will be governed in accordance with the specific requirements of the "Law on the Alat Free Economic Zone."
The new legislation introduces stricter accountability measures, stipulating that individuals who violate the requirements of the law will be held liable in accordance with the established legal procedures. Upon the entry into force of this new law, the previous "Law on Fisheries" dated March 27, 1998, will be repealed, marking a significant update to the country's regulatory environment for the fishing industry.
The modernization of this legal framework is part of Azerbaijan's ongoing efforts to ensure sustainable development and the efficient management of its natural resources, balancing economic interests with ecological preservation.
