Permits for catching small pelagic fish, such as anchovies and sardines (pilchards), which would have expired tomorrow, have been extended by two months. 

This comes after the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and Environment (DFFE) announced that all permits due to expire on August 31, 2025, will be issued until October 30, 2025, due to pending court outcomes relating to the finalisation of appeals in the 2021/22 Fishing Rights Allocation Process (FRAP) for the Small Pelagic sector.

The finalisation of the process has been delayed due to review applications brought before the Western Cape High Court.

The department confirmed that the extension of the permit validity was to ensure uninterrupted authorisation for all rightsholders and for stability in the sector.

DFFE, in a statement, said most of these matters (review applications) have been resolved by court orders requiring the minister, Dr Dion George, to reconsider certain appeal decisions. Some reviews remain pending and are being resolved through agreement between the parties and the court.

“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 George.

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 General Published Reasons (GPRs) have been taken into account. 

The department had originally aimed to complete this process by August 29, 2025. However, later court orders required adjustments to this timetable.

Following consultation with stakeholders, the new deadline for finalisation is October 30, 2025.

Key updates in this regard are the extension of the permit validity. 

Other updates are: 

• Allocations: Percentage Total Allowable Catch (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.
• Next Steps: Guidance on permit applications beyond October 30, 2025, will be issued in due course. Rightsholders and stakeholders will be kept informed of developments.

“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 that depend on these resources,” said George. 

chevon.booysen@inl.co.za

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