Sana'a: The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources has announced the closure of the coastal shrimp fishing season in the Red Sea within Yemen's territorial waters, effective from Dhu al-Qi'dah 13, 1447 AH, corresponding to April 30, 2026.

According to Yemen News Agency, the Ministry's decision was issued on Thursday, emphasizing the need for the General Authority for Fisheries in the Red Sea to inventory the quantities of coastal shrimp and the amounts stored in exporters' cold storage facilities. The Ministry expects the results to be submitted within ten days from the date of issuance.

The Ministry also affirmed that anyone violating the provisions of the decision will face penalties as outlined in the Law Regulating the Fishing, Exploitation, and Protection of Aquatic Life, its executive regulations, and other applicable laws.

The decision further directed the General Authority for Fisheries and the Coast Guard Authority to intensify maritime monitoring during the closure period. Additionally, the Marine Science and Aquatic Life Research Authority has been tasked with conducting biological studies on shrimp during this period and submitting their findings to the Ministry.

The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources stated that the decision is based on recommendations from research and fisheries bodies, as well as the Tihama Coast Association. This move is part of efforts to preserve fishery resources and ensure the sustainability of aquatic life reproduction in territorial waters.