South Africa reduced its abalone fishing quota to 12.01 tonnes for 2025-26 after scientists warned the marine species faces extinction from poaching. Minister Dion George announced the limit on Tuesday, following research that showed abalone populations had dropped to two percent of their historical levels. Illegal harvesting reached 13.85 million specimens in 2023, while organized crime networks export dried shells to Asian markets.
The government will seek international trade restrictions through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Officials want dried abalone added to Appendix II to require export permits and enable customs seizures worldwide. Abalone density measurements show 0.02 to 0.07 specimens per square meter in depleted zones where fishing remains prohibited.
The quota reduction affects 178 licensed divers but aims to prevent the total collapse of the fishery. Authorities increased patrols and community monitoring to combat syndicates stripping coastal reefs.
The government will seek international trade restrictions through the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species. Officials want dried abalone added to Appendix II to require export permits and enable customs seizures worldwide. Abalone density measurements show 0.02 to 0.07 specimens per square meter in depleted zones where fishing remains prohibited.
The quota reduction affects 178 licensed divers but aims to prevent the total collapse of the fishery. Authorities increased patrols and community monitoring to combat syndicates stripping coastal reefs.
