The Belize Fisheries Department is dedicated to ensuring the vibrant future of Belize’s aquatic resources. Its mandate is to sustain and enhance the viability of fisheries resources, optimizing yields to support the livelihoods of fishing communities, ensuring food security, and generating employment and income, all while safeguarding the ecosystem and environmental services of the sector.
The Department’s mission is to provide the best possible management of Belize’s aquatic and fisheries resources, aiming to optimize present and future benefits through efficient and sustainable practices. This commitment is vital to nurturing a thriving fisheries sector that contributes to our national well-being and the health of our environment.
BFD plays a critical role in combating Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, safeguarding Belize’s territorial waters against overexploitation. The department envisions a future where Belize’s fisheries sector remains a pillar of the national economy while maintaining the health of marine ecosystems. Through research, enforcement, and collaboration with stakeholders, BFD works to ensure that Belize’s marine resources continue to provide food security, employment, and economic opportunities for future generations.
