The Agriculture, Fisheries and Conservation Department (AFCD) announced today (January 16) that the Enhancement Measures for Recreational Fishing Rafts will take immediate effect, allowing mariculturists with a valid Recreational Fishing Consent Letter to sell specific food and beverages on their fish rafts, with a view to promoting the development of local leisure fisheries.
A spokesman for the AFCD said, "The Enhancement Measures for Recreational Fishing Rafts is one of the key measures in promoting leisure fisheries under the Blueprint for the Sustainable Development of Agriculture and Fisheries. The AFCD expects the new measures will help foster the sustainable development of the Hong Kong mariculture industry, thereby increasing the income of mariculturists and enhancing public's understanding of local mariculture."
Under the new measures, licensees with a valid Recreational Fishing Consent Letter are allowed to sell specific food and beverages on their fish rafts, provided such activities do not affect their fish culture operations or the environment within designated fish culture zones. For the sale of the specific items including pre-packaged pre-cooked dim-sum, cup noodles, pre-packaged snacks, pre-packaged or bottled non-alcoholic beverages, etc, applying for a food licence or permit is not required. Microwave ovens and electric kettles are allowed to be equipped on the fish rafts for visitors' usage. The AFCD has reviewed the regulations concerned and lifted restrictions to facilitate the development of the trade.
The spokesman added that the AFCD will strengthen the promotion of the Enhancement Measures of Recreational Fishing Rafts through various channels such as websites and social media platforms. The AFCD will also continue to promote educational activities (including guided tours and workshops) to foster fisheries development. These initiatives aim to create a diverse, rich and unique tourism experience at recreational fish rafts for the public and tourists to enjoy the pleasures of leisure fisheries.
Currently, there are 11 fish culture zones in Hong Kong where rafts are allowed to conduct recreational fishing activities. For details on the recreational fishing rafts, please visit the AFCD website (www.afcd.gov.hk/english/fisheries/fish_aqu/fish_aqu_mfco/fish_aqu_mfco.html).
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