In this sense, the guild rejected any narrative seeking to delegitimize the fishing sector without technical backing and that affects fishing activity.
Regarding the regulatory process, they indicated that the country is undergoing an update based on Executive Decree No. The National Chamber of Fishing and Aquaculture of Panama expressed its support for the fishing sector and the Panama Aquatic Resources Authority (ARAP), in the face of recent allegations of a supposed lack of control in the activity.
The guild indicated that fishing in Panama, especially the longline fleet, is a legal and strategic activity, with an impact on food security, formal employment, exports, and coastal economies. They stated that these changes are part of a transition to a more robust, transparent, and competitive system within fishing regulation.
The guild maintained that Panama has a management, control, and monitoring system in operation, which is being strengthened by ARAP. They highlighted that 100% of the industrial fleet has satellite monitoring (VMS), in addition to the capabilities of the National Fisheries Monitoring Center, as part of oversight and traceability.
Additionally, they noted that the sustainability of resources and the economic development of the sector are complementary objectives that must be addressed through public policies that are sustainable, predictable, and results-oriented to strengthen fishing sustainability.
The Chamber called for the public debate to be conducted responsibly, avoiding generalizations that affect confidence in the sector. It also reiterated its willingness to collaborate with ARAP in institutional strengthening and in promoting responsible, competitive, and sustainable fishing.
