Cambodia to Host National Fish Day to Raise Public Awareness on Fishery Resource Conservation

Cambodia is set to observe National Fish Day on July 1st, an annual event aimed at fostering public awareness and participation in the conservation of fishery resources. Approximately 5 million fish and aquatic species are released into natural waters nationwide each year as part of this initiative. This observance, which coincides with the freshwater fishing ban period from early June to late October, seeks to promote the reproduction and growth of fish stocks, thereby ensuring future fishing yields and contributing to national food security and the livelihoods of citizens. This year's National Fish Day will be celebrated at Vai Go River in Svay Rieng province, with Prime Minister Hun Manet and his wife expected to preside over the ceremony. This marks the second time the event will be held at Vai Go River, the first being in 2011. The river is a vital water resource, maintaining significant water levels throughout the year and supporting both fishing and agricultural activities. Historical accounts suggest the river earned its name between the 12th and 13th centuries when local residents and traders engaged in the trade of cattle and buffalo, which were transported across the river. In previous National Fish Day addresses, Prime Minister Hun Manet has emphasized the importance of strengthening fishery resource conservation, protecting flooded forests and mangrove areas, and preserving endangered species such as Mekong River dolphins. He has also called for stricter enforcement against illegal fishing activities and promoted the development of fishing communities and sustainable fishery management. Furthermore, the government encourages research into breeding techniques for rare and endangered aquatic species and promotes aquaculture in both freshwater and marine environments. According to a 2025 report from the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, Cambodia's total fishery output reached 978,560 tons, a 5.6% increase from the previous year. This growth is attributed to the concerted efforts of specialized agencies, armed forces, sub-national administrations, relevant authorities, and fishing communities in combating illegal fishing, supported by public information. Notable achievements include enhanced breeding capacity for the national symbol, the Kinabalu barb (Trachypoma macrolepis), and other key fish species. The processing and export of fishery products to markets like China and Australia, rescue operations for broodstock in drying areas during the dry season, the construction of fish ladders to facilitate fish migration, and the participation of citizens in releasing broodstock and endangered fish back into the wild are all commendable actions contributing significantly to food security, improved livelihoods, poverty reduction, and national economic sustenance. Cambodia is fortunate to be rich in aquatic resources across its rivers, streams, lakes, reservoirs, ponds, and even rice fields, embodying the Khmer proverb, 'Where there is water, there are fish.' Fish are a primary food source for the Cambodian population, underscoring the necessity of collective efforts to protect, conserve, and develop these invaluable resources for future generations. Source: AKP Khmer