El Salvador and Panama implement fishing bans to protect marine species

El Salvador and Panama have implemented fishing bans to protect marine species during critical reproductive periods.

In El Salvador, the Salvadoran Blue Economy Authority (ASEA) has enacted a national ban on marine shrimp extraction. The measure, which began on October 1 and is scheduled to conclude on November 14, 2026, aims to protect the biological cycle and ensure the long-term economic sustainability of coastal areas. While extraction is prohibited, the commercialization and consumption of shrimp acquired before the ban remain legal. Businesses must submit inventory control forms to prevent the seizure of irregular goods.

In Panama, the Aquatic Resources Authority (ARAP) has suspended the 2026 herring fishing season in Pacific waters. This decision follows scientific monitoring showing that 62% of analyzed samples were mature, egg-bearing females. Additionally, the average catch size of 16.6 centimeters fell below the 17-centimeter minimum required by the Small Pelagic Fisheries Management Plan. The ban applies to both small and large-scale vessels to prevent overpressure on the population.