The Russian Ministry of Agriculture is rolling out an ambitious reform to enhance oversight of its vast fishing industry, proposing mandatory audio and video surveillance across key operational stages of its fishing fleet. This initiative, detailed in a draft amendment to existing regulations and posted on the federal portal for regulatory projects, aims to dramatically boost transparency in the harvesting of aquatic biological resources. Under the proposed norms, continuous monitoring will encompass the entire process of biological resource extraction, along with the crucial procedures of weighing and measuring catches directly on board vessels.
The comprehensive new monitoring system is slated for a multi-year, phased introduction. Beginning September 1, 2027, the regulations will initially target crab-fishing vessels with a gross tonnage exceeding 500 tons, though specific exceptions may apply. The second phase, commencing March 1, 2028, will extend these stringent requirements to large trawlers over 3,000 tons. By September 2028, the scope will broaden further, encompassing commercial fishing vessels equipped with engines more powerful than 55 kilowatts and those with a gross tonnage above 80 tons, signaling a broad application across significant segments of the fleet.
The proposed legislation meticulously details the areas on board subject to continuous observation. Video cameras will be mandated to cover fishing decks, processing workshops, and all product loading and weighing stations. For crucial activities such as crab sorting, the rules dictate a minimum of two distinct camera angles to ensure comprehensive coverage. Furthermore, photographic oversight must extend to at least 60 percent of the length of both the port and starboard sides of the vessel. Even waste disposal points and the navigation bridge will fall under this digital gaze. Technically, recordings must meet a minimum resolution of HD (1280×720 pixels) at no less than 5 frames per second, while the audio system on the bridge must guarantee clear speech intelligibility from any point within.
To ensure the integrity of the collected data and prevent any circumvention, all installed equipment will undergo mandatory certification by the Russian Maritime Register of Shipping. Following approval, devices will be sealed to preclude external interference, underscoring a robust commitment to verifiable compliance. This ambitious proposal is currently open for public discourse, with the Ministry actively soliciting feedback and suggestions from industry stakeholders. This collaborative approach aims to refine the final document, ultimately strengthening the accountability and sustainability of Russia’s vital fisheries sector on the international stage.