Tunisia’s Gulf of Gabès: New Marine‑Protection and Sustainable‑Fisheries Projects

The Ministry of Agriculture, Hydraulic Resources and Fisheries has unveiled a series of planned projects in the Gulf of Gabès aimed at safeguarding the marine environment and boosting fishery resources. The initiatives are part of a multi‑year, comprehensive strategy that blends ecological preservation with economic development.

Key Initiatives

Initiative	Objective	Status
Protection of Zarate fishing port	Prevent silting and maintain port functionality	Planned
Feasibility study for Sensitive Marine Zones	Identify and manage ecologically fragile areas	Ongoing
Immersion of artificial docks	Reinforce seabed vegetation and restore threatened aquatic species	Implemented since 2007
Marine aquaculture plan	Develop sustainable offshore farming	Drafting
Partnerships with the Global Fund for Nature	Renewable energy, species protection, habitat restoration, sustainable fisheries, value‑chain optimisation	Active

“These projects will reinforce the durability of the marine environment while ensuring a balance between economic growth and natural‑resource protection in the Gulf of Gabès,” said Ezeddine Ben Sheikh, Minister of Agriculture, Hydraulic Resources and Fisheries.

The Three‑Pillar Strategy

During a plenary session on Friday, 13 March 2026 at the Bardo, the minister presented a three‑axis strategy:

1. Biological Rest Period

When: 3 months each year (since 2009)
Who: Bottom‑trawl vessels
Why: Aligns with fish spawning, allowing juveniles to mature and replenish stocks, delivering positive ripple effects throughout the marine ecosystem.

2. Combating Illegal Fishing

Enhanced field control by inter‑ministerial teams
Resources added: fast patrol boats, two dedicated patrol vessels, and specialized training for fish‑guards
Technology: satellite‑based monitoring system to curb poaching and other illegal practices

3. Immersion of Artificial Docks

Since 2007, artificial docks have been submerged to rebuild seabed flora and provide habitats for endangered marine species, contributing to biodiversity recovery.

These actions are framed within a sustainable‑development approach that protects the Gulf while supporting the local fishing‑dependent economy.

Why It Matters

Environmental Impact: Restoring seabed vegetation and protecting breeding grounds help maintain biodiversity and resilience against climate change.
Economic Benefits: Sustainable fisheries and aquaculture create stable jobs, improve food security, and enhance the value chain for Tunisian seafood exports.
Regional Leadership: The collaboration with the Global Fund for Nature positions Tunisia as a proactive player in Mediterranean marine conservation.

Keywords: Gulf of Gabès, marine conservation, sustainable fisheries, Tunisia, marine aquaculture, illegal fishing, artificial docks, biodiversity restoration, renewable energy, Global Fund for Nature.

Gulf of Gabès the Ministry of Agriculture mobilizes to develop fishery resources and protect the marine environment