The Belize High Seas Fisheries Unit exists under the Ministry of Finance, Economic Development, and Investment was established on 12th November 2013 pursuant to the High Seas Fishing Act 2013. It is the primary authority responsible for the governance of Belize’s high seas fisheries sector. The official mandate of the BHSFU is defined in Part II of the High Seas Fisheries Act 2013 and its core function includes:

  • The issuance of fishing licenses, permits, and authorizations to Belize flagged fishing and related vessels.
  • The monitoring, control, and surveillance of all fishing vessels.
  • The collection, review, consolidation, recording, and reporting of catch and effort data obtained from fishing and related activities.
  • The coordination and management of Belize’s at-sea observer program.
  • The coordination and management of Belize’s inspection and discharge program.
  • Ensure compliance by all fishing and related vessels with national, regional, and international obligations and requirements.
  • The administration of Belize’s high seas quota management system.
  • The investigation of all incidences of IUU activities.
  • The development of plans, policies, regulations, and other relevant legislation relevant to high seas fisheries.

The Prime Minister, Minister of Finance have responsibility for the Unit and the wider high seas fisheries sector.

For more information on the Belize High Seas Fisheries Unit, visit their website at www.bhsfu.gov.bz