South Africa raises sardine catch limit to save fishing jobs

CAPE TOWN, July 1 — South Africa has increased the sardine catch limit on its West Coast by 6,000 tonnes to help protect jobs and livelihoods in coastal communities. On Tuesday, Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment Willie Aucamp said that the decision balances economic needs with environmental protection.

The increase brings the Total Allowable Catch (TAC) for areas west of Cape Agulhas to 36,500 tonnes from 30,500 tonnes. “I am very pleased that we have saved more than a thousand jobs, whilst also ensuring the protection of our natural resources,” Aucamp said.