Marine fishing regulations undergo major shifts in Mexico and high seas

Industry stakeholders and government agencies are implementing significant changes to marine fishing regulations in different regions.

In the Alto Golfo de California, Mexico's National Commission of Aquaculture and Fisheries (Conapesca) has effectively reduced the protection area for the vaquita marina by approximately 86 percent. The protected zone has decreased from 11,106 square kilometers to 1,562 square kilometers, allowing for the return of gillnet fishing in a 9,544 square kilometer area. This regulatory shift follows an agreement between fishermen and the Mexican government to permit traditional fishing gear in much larger portions of the region.

Separately, producers and buyers of giant squid and jumbo squid have called for stricter limits on high-seas fishing during the Conxemar 2026 event in Vigo. Representing interests from Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, and Peru, CALAMASUR expressed concern over unregulated growth in captures. Data from the South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organisation indicates that Chinese fleets increased their giant squid catch from 273,900 tons in 2024 to 484,700 tons in 2025. Industry leaders are advocating for reduced fishing days and enhanced scientific cooperation to ensure resource sustainability.