Buan County proposes new aquaculture permits for private tidal flats

Buan County has proposed a new aquaculture permit system to the Local Regulatory Innovation Committee to allow farming on privately owned tidal flats. Currently, these lands face dual regulations under both land and public water laws, making development difficult and leaving much of the area idle.

Existing permit types require significant civil engineering, such as building embankments or tanks, which can damage the ecosystem and increase costs. The county's proposal seeks to amend the Enforcement Decree of the Aquaculture Industry Development Act to allow aquaculture on these flats in their natural state.

If implemented, the county estimates the change could generate over 30 billion won in annual income and create more than 300 new jobs. While the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries has expressed caution regarding potential conflicts with other fishing sectors, Buan County officials argue that the low water depth and existing property restrictions minimize the risk of disputes.