The announcement was made by Associate Professor Dr. Dang Thi Lua, head of the Research Institute for Aquaculture No. 1, during a national science and technology meeting held on May 10.

The institute managed to breed amberjack in captivity for the first time, something countries like Japan and China have tried but not achieved.

“This is the first time in the world that amberjack breeding has been successfully carried out, and it was done in Vietnam,” Dr. Lua was quoted by Tuoitre News as saying.

Amberjack which is especially valued in Japan, where it is commonly used in sashimi and sushi sells for around VND1 million or US$38.5 per kilogram and accounts for more than half of Japan’s farmed marine fish.

Japan currently leads in global amberjack production, with about 150,000 metric tons farmed each year.

The fish is also farmed in Chile and Mexico, with rising demand from South Korea, the United States , and Europe.

Vietnam’s efforts to farm amberjack began in 1991, using wild fry from the waters near Da Nang. However, the limited supply of wild juveniles made large-scale farming impossible.

The recent success came when researchers saw that fry started feeding on artificial feed from the 18th day of rearing, a key milestone in fish breeding.

Vietnam’s researchers now plan to raise the fry to the juvenile stage and carry out commercial farming trials. If successful, it could open up a new chapter for the country’s aquaculture sector.

In addition to amberjack, Vietnamese scientists have also managed to breed fourfinger threadfin, another valuable fish with strong export potential.

According to local reports , the attackers fired warning shots, forcing the crew to hide in a safe area.

After staying on the vessel for nearly three hours, the armed men rounded up the crew on deck and took their phones before leaving.

When the crew came out of hiding, they found that the ship’s captain, chief mate, and chief engineer—all Chinese nationals—were missing.

Poor signal coverage at sea delayed the crew from reporting the incident until they sailed closer to shore.

The Ghana Armed Forces said the vessel has safely reached Tema Fishing Harbour, where Marine Police and Naval Intelligence officers have begun questioning the crew.

The authorities have also contacted neighbouring countries through the ECOWAS Multinational Maritime Coordination Centre in Accra as part of regional efforts to fight piracy.

Officials say steps are being taken to find those responsible and bring back the kidnapped crew.

Droughts have destroyed farms, leaving many women without food or income.

With few options, some have turned to fishing and only can rely on fishermen to get their catch because they do not have their own boats. In return, many fishermen are demanding sex instead of money.

A woman named Martha shared her experience. She has a fishing net but no boat. “They demand sex in exchange for cheaper fish,” she said.

Another woman, Palekelo, said she was told she would not get any fish unless she first spent the night with a fisherman.

Gender-based violence is a growing problem in Zambia. The country recorded more than 42,000 cases in both 2023 and 2024. Many more cases go unreported.

ActionAid , an international organisation, had been running programs in Zambia to protect women and provide safe spaces.

However, funding cuts from the U.S. and other countries have forced these programs to shut down. The loss of aid has worsened the crisis, leaving women even more vulnerable.

Faides TembaTemba, who leads ActionAid Zambia, told Euronews , “No mother should have to trade her safety to keep her children from starving.”

With more droughts expected in the future, the situation could become even worse. Millions of Zambians are at risk of hunger, and women in fishing communities remain at the mercy of those who control access to food.

Massandje Litsé Touré, ECOWAS Commissioner for Economic Affairs and Agriculture, emphasized the strategic importance of this investment for West Africa's agricultural sector. She noted that this grant follows a previous $1 million allocation in 2023, which supported 24 training centres under ECOWAS' Regional Strategy for Youth Employability in Agriculture.

“This initiative aligns with ECOWAS’ vision for inclusive and innovative agricultural development,” Touré stated. “Training young people is an investment in our collective future. It equips them with the tools to transform agriculture, enhance productivity, and strengthen sector competitiveness. It also addresses youth unemployment by fostering self-employment and entrepreneurship.”

The grant distribution includes $936,000 for Songhai Centers, $708,000 for the West and Central African Council for Agricultural Research and Development (CORAF) and its ten national agronomic research centres, and $594,000 for agroeconomic and organic production centres implementing the Organic and Ecological Agriculture (EOA-I) initiative under the WASEOA secretariat.

Pisani explained, "The agreement will not be renewed after the European Commission notified the Senegalese government in May of 'shortcomings' regarding illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing."

The EU’s fishing accord with Senegal, which has been in effect since 2019, will officially expire at midnight between Sunday, November 17, and Monday, November 18, AFP reports. 

In line with EU regulations, when the European Commission issues notifications on such matters, fisheries agreements are halted until progress is seen in curbing illegal fishing practices. As Pisani noted, "fisheries agreements are not renewed until the fight against illegal fishing is achieved."

In May, the European Commission issued a "yellow card" warning to Senegal, urging the West African nation to strengthen efforts to combat IUU fishing. The problem poses a severe threat to the food security and livelihoods of many Senegalese. 

Shortly after the installation of the Bassirou Diomaye Faye government, several initiatives aimed at preserving marine resources were launched, including a move by the Ministry of Fisheries that limited fishing licenses to 151 vessels — 132 national and 19 foreign.

Queen Suthida captained Thailand's ice hockey team in a friendly match against China, celebrating two significant anniversaries: the King's 72nd birthday and the 75th anniversary of the People’s Republic of China. The match, held at the Thailand International Ice Hockey Arena in Bangkok, ended in a draw after Thailand won the first set 6:2, China took the second set 4:3, and the final set culminated in a 6:6 tie, Nation Thailand News reported.

Flooding hits 23 provinces

In light of recent climate challenges, Thailand is facing significant flooding across 23 provinces, affecting more than 66,000 families in 1,647 villages. Currently, flood levels are declining in the northern provinces, but certain areas continue to experience rising waters. The Northeast sees seven inundated provinces with stable water levels, while five provinces in the Central Plains report increasing floods. The southern regions, notably Nakhon Si Thammarat and Songkhla, are reporting descending flood levels. According to Bangkok Post , the adverse effects of this flooding have tragically resulted in 52 fatalities and 28 injuries since mid-August.

Imported goods

Addressing quality control in the market, Thailand's Industry Minister Akanat Promphan has announced enhanced screening procedures for imported goods to restrict the smuggling of inferior products. The closure of the EXEMPT 5 import channel, effective from October 1, aims to eliminate loopholes that allow low-quality imports into the country, Vietnam News explained. It is now mandated that all controlled goods enter through the National Single Window system, regardless of volume. Non-compliance may lead to harsh penalties, including imprisonment and substantial fines. Consumers are encouraged to verify product quality by seeking TISI logos and scanning QR codes.

The Fisheries project

To combat the ecological threat posed by invasive species, the Department of Fisheries in Thailand is repurposing blackchin tilapia into 'pla ra,' a traditional fermented fish sauce. According to Bangkok Post , this project targets the removal of 200,000 kilograms of this invasive species from local areas while fostering economic initiatives. Funding is allocated for local communities to acquire necessary production equipment. Currently, 20 communities have participated in this initiative, which not only aims to lessen ecological disruption but also bolster local economies through the development of marketable fish products.

Discovery of new animal species

In a notable discovery, researchers have identified a new species of frog, Microhyla peninsularis, or the Peninsular narrow-mouthed frog, in southern Thailand. Initially aiming to study Berdmore’s narrow-mouthed frog, scientists recognised this new species through distinct genetic and morphological traits, including its characteristic triangular body and muscular thighs, News Observer reported. These nocturnal frogs, measuring just over one inch in length, are predominantly grey-brown with lighter underbellies and are found in lowland forest ecosystems on the Thai-Malay peninsula.

While fish prices soar and the population of 18 million grapples with rising living costs, Senegal is focusing on aquaculture to ease the strain. 

The coastal town of Kayar in Senegal, long reliant on the Atlantic Ocean for its fish supply, is now looking inland to supplement its production. A pioneering aquaculture farm, founded by Khadidiatou Sar Seck about 15 years ago, is part of the country's efforts to address dwindling fish stocks.

Seck, who founded the Mbawane fish and agricultural farm, emphasised the need to market aquaculture products. “There’s still work to be done to get aquaculture products accepted on the market,” she told the AFP, explaining that many Senegalese are unfamiliar with farm-raised fish. This has made it difficult for aquaculture products to gain traction, even at fishing piers, where fishmongers are hesitant to sell what their customers don’t recognise.

Demba Diop, who runs a fry farm in Tiadiaye, pointed to the need for more government investment in the sector. "The potential is immense," he said but noted that the cost of fry, feed, and electricity remains a barrier to aquaculture's growth.

President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, who took office in March, has made food sovereignty a key policy . Yet, aquaculture in Senegal remains underdeveloped, supplying just 1% of the country’s aquatic produce despite the establishment of a dedicated agency in 2006. 

Globally, Africa accounts for only 1.9% of aquaculture production, compared to Asia's 91.4%, according to a 2024 report by the UN’s Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

Despite the profession being male-dominated, Souissi has defied cultural expectations. "Our society doesn't accept women in this profession (fishing), but I decided to carry on and fight against this idea because I love this profession. I love the sea, I love fishing. You could say that the sea has been my hobby ever since I was a little girl," she told the AFP. 

Aside from the cultural challenges, Souissi and other small-scale fishers face another challenge, unsustainable fishing practices. "Plastic nets are a nuisance for me and for all fishermen. To this day, we continue to fish with these nets,” she noted.

Efforts to support fisherwomen are emerging as the Tunisian Society for Sustainable Fishing is beginning to empower and integrate more women through workshops to venture into the sector.

"We're here because we want to create additional sources of income for the people of the Raoued region, especially today by tackling a number of issues, such as climate change and the severe depletion of natural resources, as well as poor practices that have affected the fishing industry. This can only be overcome by solutions such as integrating women into the fishing industry," said Ryma Moussaoui, a coordinator with the Tunisian Society for Sustainable Fishing.

A recent student by the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) disclosed that

Tunisian fisherwomen also struggle with access to banking, administrative benefits, and training, and are often viewed as "high-risk borrowers." 

The move is expected to improve trade and export opportunities for Thailand’s business in the U.S. market.

Labour Minister, Phiphat Ratchakitprakarn described the decision as a significant step for the shrimp sector and the fisheries industries.

Thai shrimp have been taken off the U.S. government's list of goods made by child labour or forced labour. The 2024 Executive Orders List tracks products that involve such practices.

Thai shrimp were first added to this list in 2009. The list is meant to stop U.S. federal agencies from buying goods made with forced or child labour, Bangkok Post reported.

What they said

Director of the Ghana Maritime Authority expressed excitement about the move, indicating the significant change it will bring for fishers in Ghana. "Ghana is proud to announce that we have ratified ILO Work in Fishing Convention, 2007 (No. 188). Prior to the ratification, we have been taking proactive steps to apply the Convention,” Nana Kwabena Boakye-Boampong was quoted . “This ratification cements our commitment to promoting decent work in the fishing sector, including the elimination of forced labour. It also provides us with international recognition for our significant efforts to protect and promote sustainability in the fishing sector," he added .

The ongoing humanitarian crisis in Yemen continues to worsen as recent flooding has resulted in significant loss of life and property. In Hodeidah province, the death toll has reached 95, with 34 individuals injured as reported by Houthi-run al-Masirah TV. According to Newsroom Odisha , the heavy rainfall has led to the collapse of numerous houses, affecting over 12,000 homes. Further complicating this situation, in Al-Mahwit province, 20 people are reported missing and at least 30 fatalities have been linked to the floods and landslides. The World Health Organization has raised alarming concerns regarding potential disease outbreaks due to contaminated water and inadequate sanitation amid the ongoing civil conflict, which has severely compromised the infrastructure and public health resilience in Yemen.

Declining fish stocks

Yemeni fishermen are innovating in response to declining fish stocks caused by persistent civil war and environmental degradation. They are increasingly adopting artificial reefs (ARs) constructed from discarded materials such as firewood, tyres, and metal, an approach that aims to replace dying coral reefs and attract marine life. However, this practice poses environmental risks as these manmade materials could pollute the waters and potentially harm existing marine ecosystems. As reported by the New Arab , The decline in Yemen's fish stock has been drastic, plummeting from 400,000 metric tons in 1993 to an estimated 40-50,000 metric tons in 2023, significantly impacting the fishing sector's contribution to the national GDP, which has decreased from 15% to just 3%.

UN calls for release of detained staff

Human rights concerns are further amplified as the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, demands the immediate release of six UN personnel detained for three months under dubious allegations by Houthi authorities. The spokesperson has dismissed the accusations as unfounded, citing that one individual may have confessed under duress, as seen in a distressing video. according to the Mirage News , These six detainees are part of a larger group of 17 UN staff currently held, with several reportedly incommunicado since 2021. The UN has reiterated the necessity for due process and legal representation, labelling the allegations as fabricated, and called upon the Houthis to facilitate UN efforts rather than hinder them.

Houthi mines cleared

In a separate domain, the 2024 STEAM Festival, themed “Fun Chemistry”, has recently commenced at the King Salman Science Oasis in Riyadh and is set to continue until September 30. Directed by Ahmed Salim, this event encompasses 100 workshops, panel discussions, and live demonstrations designed to promote public understanding of science and its relevance to daily life. The festival, organised in collaboration with various Saudi ministries and institutions, responds to the kingdom's escalating demand for scientific expertise while fostering local innovations in alignment with Vision 2030. Arab News highlights that the significant components of the festival involve over 25 pavilions dedicated to the exploration of chemistry’s historical context, contemporary technologies, and sustainable methodologies, aiming to provide diverse educational opportunities across all societal segments while accentuating the fusion of art with technology and engineering.

Efforts to salvage the burning oil tanker

Finally, amidst ongoing regional tensions, efforts to salvage the burning oil tanker Sounion in the Red Sea have been stalled due to safety concerns, as reported by a European Union naval mission. The tanker, which carries one million barrels of oil, poses a substantial risk of an ecological catastrophe in the event of a spill, a situation aggravated by the ongoing conflict involving the Israel-Hamas situation. As reported by ABC News , the Houthis have intensified their targeting of vessels, claiming these actions are directed towards ships associated with Israel and its allies, with threats of environmental disasters aimed at securing concessions from the international community.

Uruguay has suspended all football activity for the weekend following the health emergency of Nacional defender Juan Izquierdo. According to CNA , the 27-year-old player is currently stable yet unconscious in the intensive care unit at Albert Einstein Hospital in São Paulo after experiencing an irregular heartbeat and collapsing during a Copa Libertadores match against São Paulo. The association has announced this suspension for the rights of professional footballers in Uruguay, emphasising the prioritisation of Izquierdo's wellbeing.

Bilateral ties with Saudi Arabia

In a notable diplomatic effort, Saudi Arabia and Uruguay have enhanced bilateral cooperation by forming a joint committee, which recently convened for its inaugural meeting in Montevideo. Chaired by Ahmed Al-Khamshi, Saudi Arabia's Undersecretary of Agriculture, and Nicolas Albertoni, Uruguay's Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs, this meeting resulted in the signing of a memorandum establishing a joint business council. TV Brics highlights that this collaborative initiative aims to strengthen the trade and diplomatic relations that have existed since 1974.

Increased fish mortality

In environmental news, low temperatures have led to significant fish mortality in the Uruguayan rivers, particularly the Santa Lucia and Negro Rivers. The Assembly for the Water of the Santa Lucia River highlighted the necessity for precautionary measures following the alarming reports of large-scale fish deaths, primarily shad, attributed to freezing temperatures since June, as reported by Prensa Latina . This issue has also been mirrored in Argentina's lower Paraná river basin, prompting discussions around environmental management and conservation strategies.

Uruguay to reduce beef exports to China

Uruguay is actively seeking to reduce its dependency on China for beef exports, a sector significantly impacted by a decelerating Chinese economy. Historically, China has served as the primary market for Uruguayan beef; however, as of August 2023, North America has emerged as the leading revenue source, now accounting for 32% of beef export revenue compared to China's 30%. MercoPress adds that from January to August, Uruguay's beef exports reached US$1.223 billion, exhibiting a slight increase in volume despite an 11% decrease in average prices. Additionally, markets such as the European Union and Israel are contributing to the country’s diversified export strategy. The USDA, however, projects a moderate uptick in Chinese demand for the latter half of the year amidst an anticipated increase in domestic meat production in China.

UAE congratulates Uruguay on Independence Day

UAE leaders, including Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, sent congratulatory messages to President Luis Lacalle Pou of Uruguay on the occasion of Uruguay's Independence Day, celebrated on August 25th to mark its independence from Brazil in 1825, reports The Siasat Daily .

Susantha Kahawatte, the Director General of the Sri Lankan Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, has confirmed the navy's efforts to transport the severely affected fishermen ashore. Given the critical nature of their condition, immediate medical treatment has been administered on board.

This incident has ignited demonstrations in Tangalle , roughly 120 miles from the capital city of Colombo, with the community insisting on the swift repatriation of the ailing sailors for adequate medical attention. The event has also led to an inquiry into the substance within the bottles.

The 75th birthday of King Charles III was celebrated in Seychelles on Saturday, June 22 with a James Bond theme event hosted by the British High Commission. The British High Commissioner highlighted the evolving bond between the UK and Seychelles and plans to launch a letter-writing competition for children to write to the King about environmental issues, reports Seychelles News Agency . Seychelles, a former British colony, obtained independence in 1976 and is a member of the Commonwealth.

Fisheries festival

The recent surge in interest in enhanced fish products led the Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA) to organise a festive event on Praslin, the archipelago's second-largest island. The celebration took place at the Baie Ste Anne fish market on Friday, marking a prelude to the SFA's 40th anniversary and the forthcoming National Day on June 29, which commemorates the Seychelles' Independence Day. The event drew a substantial turnout, yet many attendees expressed their dissatisfaction when the fish products sold out within an hour. Collaborating with the Indian Ocean Tuna Limited (IOT), the SFA offered an assortment of canned tuna at the festival, as reported by the Seychelles News Agency . Despite also providing fish-based delicacies like burgers, nuggets, and balls, the SFA found their supplies insufficient to meet the high demand of the locals.

Anti-corruption collaboration

On Friday, June 21, the Anti-Corruption Commission Seychelles (ACCS) and the European Public Prosecution Office (EPPO) formalised a collaborative agreement aimed at bolstering anti-corruption initiatives and tackling corruption in the public sector. The ACCS outlined that the agreement's objective is to streamline collaborative efforts in the investigation and prosecution of criminal activities. Additionally, the agreement is designed to improve the sharing of evidence, as well as operational and strategic intelligence. It will also promote other cooperative endeavours, including local capacity building and knowledge sharing. The official signing was carried out by ACCS Commissioner May De Silva and EPPO Deputy Chief Prosecutor Andrés Ritter. As reported by the Seychelles News Agency , May De Silva emphasised that this agreement is a milestone in fostering international cooperation, reinforcing legal and institutional structures, and advocating for good governance, thereby establishing a model for efficient and united anti-corruption actions.

Illegal fishing

The latest findings from an independent lobster fishery survey suggest that unlawful fishing activities may be contributing to a reduced lobster population around the inner islands of the Seychelles. Kettyna Gabriel, a senior fisheries scientist with the Seychelles Fishing Authority (SFA), shared insights with the Seychelles News Agency during a workshop aimed at validating the survey's findings. According to the survey, lobster numbers were higher around more remote islands like Bird Island and Denis Island, in contrast to the lower counts observed in the vicinity of the Mahe plateau. "We suspect that this may be because of fishing pressure. We are all aware that a high amount of IUU (illegal, unreported and unregulated) illegal fishing is happening even if there is a closed season. And the Mahe area would be a prime target given its proximity and the fact that you would need bigger boats and equipment to fish near the outer islands," she said.

Island owner

In the 1960s, a man from Yorkshire, grappling with the prospect of unemployment, embarked on a journey to the Seychelles that would transform his destiny. Brendon Grimshaw, hailing from Dewsbury in Yorkshire, stumbled upon Moyenne Island during a vacation in the Seychelles in 1962. The small island, measuring a mere half-mile across, captivated him, and he impulsively purchased it for a modest sum of £8,000 (over $10,000). Grimshaw, who had been an editor for a newspaper in East Africa, chose to abandon his former profession and life to devote himself to the island's revival, as reported by Leeds Live. Enchanted by its serenity and pristine beauty, he was determined to rejuvenate the long-neglected landscapes and wildlife of Moyenne, the Mirror adds . The vegetation was so lush that coconuts dropping from lofty trees were ensnared by the dense underbrush below, never touching the ground. It has even been likened to "a miniature rainforest bursting forth from the sea," as Yorkshire Live once described.

Jamaica's government is spending $1 billion to improve the appearance and services of primary healthcare facilities. According to Jamaica Observer , the initiative, called 'Operation Refresh' aims to standardise the look of health centres and enhance the role of community health aides. The upgrade will include sustainable features and improved sanitation. Additionally, 370 more doctors will be hired to provide expanded services at the health centres.

$1.8 billion tourism revenue in 5 months

Jamaica has welcomed 1.7 million visitors in the first five months of 2024, earning roughly US$1.8 billion in revenue from both stopover and cruise passenger arrivals. There has been a 4.6 per cent increase in stopover arrivals and a 23 per cent increase in cruise passengers compared to 2023. Despite ongoing challenges facing the global cruise industry, Jamaica is expecting vessel arrivals and passenger count to equal or exceed those in the previous fiscal year, Jamaica Observer reports. The country will also host the Florida-Caribbean Cruise Association’s 2024 Platinum Member Cruise Summit in June, showcasing advancements in cruise infrastructure and world-class attractions.

App for entertainment permits launched

A new app called Atendify has been launched to streamline the process of obtaining event permits in Jamaica. The app allows users to apply and track submissions to local authorities, saving time and money. The mayor of Montego Bay, Councillor Richard Vernon, supports the new system, which is expected to reduce processing time for permits. As reported by Jamaica Observer , the app is currently in the pilot phase and is expected to eventually expand to other agencies involved in the approval process.

Online licensing and registration system for fishers

The National Fisheries Authority (NFA) in Jamaica has introduced the 'IrieFINS' online licensing and registration system which allows fishers to apply for or renew their licences using their mobile devices. According to The Gleaner , the phased implementation aims to familiarise NFA officers and fishers with the platform, with the ultimate goal of achieving a paperless system. The NFA has seen improved compliance with regulations and steps taken to get licensed.

Fuel prices go down

Jamaican motorists are in for a treat with reduced prices at the pumps. The latest reports from Radio Jamaica News indicate a significant decline in gas prices, with 87 gasolene dropping by $4.50 and 90 gasolene by $3.06. Diesel has decreased by $4.47, while Ultra Low Sulphur Diesel has seen a $4.50 reduction. Kerosene prices have also fallen by $4.15, and both propane and butane are down by $3.06.

Vice President Netumbu Nandi-Ndaitwa expressed optimism about the success of the project, describing it as a game-changer for the region’s economy. According to her, the project aligns with global development plans including Vision 2030 and the Harambee Prosperity Plan.

“For the first time in our history, Namibia will become a producer of premium Atlantic salmon and with the new industries coming up all around Luderitz, soon this town will become one of the major economic centres of our country,” Nandi-Ndaitwa was quoted by The Namibian as saying.

Namibia Investment Promotion Development Board chief executive Nangula Uaandja also described the project as successful, indicating that it took three years to get off the ground.

The Benguela Blue Aqua Farming project is expected to create several jobs and opportunities for exports to key markets in Europe, the United States, and Southeast Asia.

It also positions Namibia as a potential leader in African salmon production and a provider amidst the growing global demand for salmon.