Thursday 13 / August / 2026
Muscat: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) has announced the implementation of a nationwide ban on the fishing, possession and trade of kingfish (locally known as kanad) across all coasts of the Sultanate of Oman for the 2026 season.
According to the ministry's announcement, the ban will take effect from August 15, 2026, and remain in force until October 15, 2026. The measure is being implemented under Article 178 of the Executive Regulations of the Marine Fisheries Law and Ministerial Decision No. 70/2026.
The ministry stated that all fishermen, fish transporters, companies and institutions involved in the fishing sector are required to comply fully with the ban. During the restricted period, the fishing, transportation, sale, purchase, possession, storage and trading of kingfish will be prohibited.
Officials said the seasonal ban is intended to support the sustainability of marine resources and protect kingfish stocks during a critical period in their life cycle. Similar conservation measures have been adopted in previous years to help maintain fish populations and ensure the long-term viability of the fisheries sector.
The ministry also called on individuals and businesses that currently possess kingfish stocks to register their quantities with the relevant authorities in accordance with the procedures and regulations outlined in the executive bylaw.
In addition, MAFWR urged all stakeholders to cooperate with regulatory authorities and adhere to the provisions of the law. The ministry emphasized the importance of preserving legal fish stocks and warned that violators would face legal action and penalties stipulated under fisheries regulations.
The announcement forms part of Oman’s broader efforts to promote sustainable fisheries management, conserve marine biodiversity and safeguard the country's fish resources for future generations. The ministry encouraged fishermen and commercial operators to strictly observe the ban throughout the two-month period.
