Tunis: The fisheries and aquaculture sector has emerged as a crucial element of Tunisia's economy. It plays a major role in job creation, food security, and export enhancement. In response to the challenges posed by the overexploitation of marine resources, Tunisia is investing in reforms and programs to ensure the sustainability and growth of this sector. According to Agence Tunis Afrique Presse, the Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources and Fisheries is implementing measures to develop production systems, modernise port infrastructure, and improve monitoring systems. These efforts aim to bolster aquaculture activities to meet the increasing demand for seafood. Minister of Agriculture, Ezzedine Ben Cheikh, highlighted these initiatives during a session at the National Council of Regions and Districts. Prime Minister Sara Zaafrani Zenzri, while presenting the 2026 Finance Bill, indicated that the government plans to allocate 119 million dinars to the fisheries sector. This funding will support developmen t programs, including subsidies for fishing vessel fuel and the expansion of several fishing ports. The national strategy aims to balance marine resource exploitation and protection. It focuses on upgrading fishing port infrastructure, improving seafood marketing conditions, and enhancing product competitiveness in both domestic and international markets. These initiatives underscore Tunisia's commitment to fostering the blue economy, increasing the added value of seafood products, and promoting sustainable development. Significant reforms in 2025 included reviewing the legal framework governing fisheries, imposing stricter penalties on illegal fishing, and enhancing marine monitoring via satellite tracking of larger fishing vessels. More than 90% of these vessels now have monitoring devices, improving maritime surveillance and reducing violations. Authorities have also regulated activities such as bluefin tuna fishing and recreational fishing. A ministerial decree in April 2025 expanded fishing quotas and regulated fishing activities. A master plan for marine aquaculture development is underway, supporting sustainable management in Tunisia. Efforts continue with programs to manage living marine resources and support the blue economy by upgrading port infrastructure and developing vocational training. The Ministry's plans include rehabilitating the fishing port of Sfax and strengthening aquaculture with investment grants of 7.7 million dinars to boost competitiveness and production capacity. Projects are ongoing in several fishing ports, including Kelibia, Teboulba, and Mahdia, with a 24 million dinar expansion underway at the Menzel Abderrahmane port. To support fishermen, especially small-scale professionals, the state provides fuel subsidies worth 82 million dinars, while enhancing regional cooperation to protect marine resources sustainably.