FRAP finalisation drags on

Decisions made to accommodate delays

SOUTH AFRICA: Permits in the Small Pelagic sector that were due to expire at the end of August have been extended until 30 October due to delays in the finalisation of appeals in the sector – highlighting the ongoing dismal legacy attached to the 2021/22 Fishing Rights Allocation Process (FRAP).

The Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE) announced that the finalisation of appeals in the 2021/22 allocations for the Small Pelagic sector due to review applications brought before the Western Cape High Court will result in the delay of final decisions on rights.

“Fairness and transparency are non-negotiable in the allocation of fishing rights. That is why we must follow due process and resolve all legal matters before finalising decisions that affect rightsholders and the sustainability of our fishery,” said Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George in a statement issued by the Department.

Percentage TAC allocations remain subject to adjustment, in line with the General Policy on the Allocation and Management of Fishing Rights. Adjustments will be made after all appeals and reviews are finalised.

Because allocations in this sector are interconnected, final decisions on rights and quantum can only be made once all appeals have been reconsidered and comments on the Provisional Sardine and Anchovy Appeals Reconsideration GPRs have been taken into account.

The Department had originally aimed to complete this process by 29 August 2025. However, later court orders required adjustments to this timetable. Following consultation with stakeholders, the new deadline for finalisation is 30 October 2025.

“By extending permits and engaging openly with stakeholders, we are safeguarding stability in the sector while honouring the principle of fairness. Our goal is to build trust, certainty and sustainability for the fishing communities who depend on these resources,” Minister George concluded.

Writing on his blog, outspoken critic of FRAP, Shaheen Moolla describes the 2022 process as “another legacy of failure”.

“Over 120 individual fishing rights allocation decisions have been reviewed and set aside - a record in the history of fisheries (MIS)management. No previous fishing rights allocation process has had such a record of judicial review,” he contends.

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