Fisheries
An underwater restaurant in the Yobuko district of Karatsu, Saga Prefecture, known for Yobuko squid, will receive a new vessel as early as this summer to continue operations. Opened in 1983 as Japan's only underwater eatery, it features the signature dish 'ika shumai,' or steamed squid dumplings. President Junko Ota notes that the facility has endured thanks to customer support and aims to evolve as a local symbol.
Imeripotiwa na AI
Reclamation projects continue to erode Laguna de Bay, reducing fish catches and disrupting lives around the lake. Fisherfolk report shallower waters and polluted conditions leading to poorer yields. Impacts are evident in Taguig, Laguna, and Rizal, with experts warning of risks like flooding and land subsidence.
South Korea's exports of dried seaweed reached a record $1.02 billion this year, surpassing $1 billion for the first time. The Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries attributed the 13.2% surge to improved quality competitiveness and rising demand in North America and Europe. The United States led as the largest importer with $220 million.
Imeripotiwa na AI
President Cyril Ramaphosa's Cabinet reshuffle on 12 November 2025 replaced Dr Dion George with Willie Aucamp as minister of forestry, fisheries and the environment. Small-scale fishers worry this change will delay a crucial review of the Marine Living Resources Act of 1998. Under George's tenure, communities faced disengagement despite ongoing calls for dialogue on sector challenges.