The Philippines, one of the world's top sources of ocean plastic, has introduced new legislation aimed at reducing plastic waste. The "Extended Producer Responsibility" (EPR) law, which came into effect last year, is the first in Southeast Asia to penalize companies for plastic waste. Half of the eligible companies have implemented EPR programs, and over 1,000 more must comply by December 2024 or face significant fines. Source: sg.news.yahoo.com/tackle-plastic-scourge-philippines

The Philippine government has launched the National Plan of Action for Small-Scale Fisheries (NPOA-SSF), a groundbreaking initiative in Asia aimed at improving and protecting small-scale fisheries, in which its focuses are on food security, poverty reduction, and sustainable development through a human rights-based approach. The NPOA-SSF aligns with the FAO’s global roadmap to transform aquatic food systems, ensuring sustainable fisheries and equitable livelihoods and contributes to the UN’s 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. Source: https://business.inquirer.net/489599/govt-unveils-framework-to-protect-enhance-small-scale-fisheries

The governments of the Maldives and Turkey have signed a Preferential Trade Agreement (PTA) to strengthen bilateral trade relations. In a publication on Monday, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade announced that the signing of the PTA marks a significant milestone in the implementation of key agreements reached during President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu’s first state visit to Türkiye in November 2023. Source: https://raajje.mv/159751

Fishermen are preparing to resume hilsa fishing at midnight, as the 22-day ban, which began on October 13, on catching, selling, and transporting the fish comes to an end. Several fishermen have expressed frustration over illegal fishing activities in neighboring districts, which have made it difficult to find hilsa, even after the ban lifts. Additionally, many fishermen have voiced dissatisfaction with the government’s food assistance during the ban, citing rising costs and the struggle to support their families, particularly when it comes to covering their children’s education expenses. Source: https://www.tbsnews.net/bangladesh/fishermen-set-resume-hilsa-fishing-ban-ends-midnight-983441