• Freely dispose of their wealth and natural resources. Eliminate
all forms of foreign exploitation.
Article
21 ACHPR.
In its way to development Seychelles is constantly signing agreements with foreign
companies and States, nevertheless always in a way that benefits the Republic, in a
sense of respect and proper utilization of the national resources.
Situated in the western part of the Indian Ocean the Seychelles has an extensive
exclusive economic zone. An adequate depth, warms temperatures and prolific
growing of coral, among others, make its sea, especially on its continental shelf, rich
in fish and all kind of sea-life, being this the most important natural resource of the
country.
The indiscriminate practice of fishing is not permitted. Foreign vessels may fish only
under official authorization and in response to commercial arrangements with
favorable economic implications for the nation.
Fisheries Act, 31/03/1987. Laws of Seychelles 1996
Section 3.1: SFA (Seychelles Fishing Authority) shall prepare and keep under review plans
for the management and development of fisheries.
3: In the preparation of the plans SFA shall consult with the local fisherman and other
person affected by the plan.
Section 4.1: The Minister may make regulations prescribing measures for the proper management
of fisheries including closed seasons and closed areas, specification of gear that may be used (including
the mesh size of nets), prohibited fishing methods and gear, the species, sizes and other characteristics
of fish and other aquatic organism that it is permitted or forbidden to catch and schemes for the
limitation of entry into all or any specified fisheries.
Section 6.1: The Minister may enter into agreements with other States, with intergovernmental
organizations and with associations […]
2: The total fishing rights allocated by agreements made under this Section shall not
exceed the total resources or amount of fishing permitted to foreign fishing vessels […].
Section 24. Offences (For both nationals and foreigners who contravene the
dispositions of the Act and under agreements)
As subsidiary legislation to this Act the "Fisheries Regulations" of 31/03/1987
regulates amongst others i)
Standard requirements (Regulation 5)