Japan

Oversight Body: Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries

Registry
Closed
ILO Conventions
- Ratified MLC in 2013
SOLAS
- Ratified SOLAS in 1983

Topics

Laws

Act on the Exercise of the Sovereign Right for Fishery, etc. in the Exclusive Economic Zone
- Transshipment
- Vessel Registration & License Management
Act on the Protection of Marine Resources
- Fishing Offenses & Infractions
Fishery Act
- Fishing Offenses & Infractions
- Observers
- Vessel Registration & License Management
Ministry of Communications Ordinance No. 6 of 1933
- Vessel Tracking
Ordinance for Enforcement of the Fishing Boat Act
- Vessel Registration & License Management

The tool is only updated as of October, 2024 which means some legal matters may have changed in certain countries in the meanwhile.

The Global Fishing Legislative Database provides access to national fishing laws for coastal countries worldwide. This searchable database links to original legal texts and contains translated passages, offering clarity on regulations governing activities in different waters. It is designed to address questions about vessel licensing requirements, crew composition mandates, and permitted gear or practices, making it a resource for journalists, researchers, advocates, and policymakers.

The tool is a work in progress, with many countries not yet included. It focuses exclusively on national fishing rules, excluding local or tribal regulations or international agreements. It’s worth noting that regional fisheries management organization members are immediately bound by resolutions and have to implement them in national law within a specified time frame. The tool also does not encompass rules that apply to non-fishing activities such as mining or shipping. Users are encouraged to report errors or contribute additional legal data by contacting media@theoutlawocean.com. This initiative aims to expand transparency and understanding of global fishing regulations.

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