200 Thai trawlers to seek Cambodian fishing licenses

TRAT, Dec 2 (TNA) – Operators of some 200 Thai trawlers on Thursday will seek licences to fish in Cambodian waters at a temporary office opposite Cambodia's Koh Kong Resort, said Thitikorn Lohakup, chairman of the Trat Fisheries Association.

Cambodian fisheries concession applications procedures will resume beginning Thursday following finalisation of regulations by the Koh Kong authorities, who agreed Tuesday to allow Thai fishermen to seek and renew their licences.

Mr Thitikorn said that the newly-appointed Koh Kong governor set up a committee to be responsible for issuing and renewing the licences. The committee will review relevant details and categorise the type of trawlers as well as the fishing equipment they use.

The chief of the Trat fisheries association added that this period is appropriate for fishing. If the procedure is completed quickly, it will be beneficial to Thai fishermen.

Last week, Cambodian Defence Minister Gen Tea Banh gave assurances that Cambodia has not closed its waters near Koh Kong as earlier reported. He explained that fisheries concession procedures were being amended and that it would not affect the livelihoods of either Thais or Cambodians.