To coincide with the opening of the fishing season across most of Cambodia, the Fisheries Administration (FiA) introduced the new “FishStat” statistical collection and analysis system today, October 1, to better handle fisheries information management.
The system will modernise fisheries information management and strengthen evidence-based decision-making by the FiA, under the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries.
“This will be done by providing more reliable, consistent and integrated fisheries data,” explained an October 1 press release.
The system is funded of the EU and the technical assistance of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the UN (FAO) and is part of the EU funded Cambodia Programme for Sustainable and Inclusive Growth in the Fisheries Sector (CAPFISH), one of the largest EU Programmes in Cambodia, which launched in 2019.
“The new platform significantly expands data collection, covering fish production, processed products, aquaculture and post-harvest enterprises. Also available will be data on employment and tracking of a wide variety of species i.e. more than 160 from inland and marine capture fisheries, as well as from aquaculture,” said the release.
Rebekah Bell, FAO representative in Cambodia, highlighted that beyond technology, FishStat is about supporting people. She believed the system would help safeguard the livelihoods of fishing families, strengthen food security and provide opportunities for youth and women in the sector.
“The new system demonstrates Cambodia’s determination to lead in fisheries management. The tools will improve fisheries data record and to protect its natural resources, support fishers and processors and ensure the fisheries sector remains a pillar of Cambodia’s economy,” according to Kaing Khim, FiA deputy director-general.
Has Sareth, agriculture ministry secretary of state, said the system is a platform that will “place Cambodia’s fisheries sector on a stronger footing for the future”.
“FishStat will help ensure that national policies and investments are guided by accurate evidence, reinforcing both economic growth and environmental sustainability,” he added.
