The annual fishing moratorium will be in effect from June 1 to August 1, during which all fishing operations in the South China Sea will be suspended, except gill-netting, long-lining, hand-lining and cage trapping.

The Agriculture, Fisheries & Conservation Department said about 1,400 local fishing vessels would be affected. It has reminded fishermen to take implications of that into account when planning their operations every year.

Fishermen who have genuine financial difficulties may apply for low-interest loans under the Fish Marketing Organisation Loan Fund. In view of the hardship facing the industry prompted by high fuel prices, the maximum amount of loans made this year will be increased from $30,000 to $40,000 for vessels under 500 horsepower and $60,000 for vessels over 500 horsepower.

During the fishing moratorium, the department will arrange training courses for fishermen to update their skills. The Marine Fish Scholarship Fund will finance fishermen to study fisheries training courses at Shanghai Fisheries University.

Mainland fisheries officials will also be invited to give talks at a seminar to be held on June 11 at Two International Finance Centre to discuss the Mainland's fisheries management measures and offshore fishing industry.

Moratorium aims to conserve resources

The fishing moratorium was implemented in the South China Sea for the first time in 1999 with a view to conserving fisheries resources and promoting sustainable development of the fishing industry. The AFCD chairs a working group that includes representatives from the fishing industry and other government departments to co-ordinate measures to help the fishermen.

The Marine Department, Hong Kong Police Force and the Fire Services Department will implement special berthing arrangements, increase patrols and step up publicity in an effort to prevent crime and fires in typhoon shelters.