Fujian farms given four-week ultimatum to fix safety and environmental breaches

The Minister for Fisheries and Aquaculture, Emelia Arthur, has issued a four-week ultimatum to Fujian Farms to correct serious operational, environmental, and safety violations—or face closure.

The directive follows an unannounced inspection at the facility, which also included Tropo Farms, as part of a nationwide enforcement drive to strengthen compliance in the aquaculture sector.

The Minister was accompanied by the District Chief Executive for Asuogyaman, Godwin Bobobee, alongside directors and staff of the Fisheries Commission.

Multiple Violations Identified

According to a statement from the Ministry, inspectors found widespread breaches at Fujian Farms, including:

· Absence of basic biosecurity protocols
· Poor sanitation across key operational areas
· Inadequate waste management systems
· Workers operating without appropriate protective gear
· Unhygienic fish handling and processing conditions
· Erosion affecting the broodstock section and water quality
· Unsafe disposal of dead fish

Officials warned that these lapses pose significant risks to public health, environmental safety, and the long-term sustainability of Ghana’s aquaculture sector.

Immediate Enforcement Measures

Minister Arthur has ordered Fujian Farms to:

· Submit a comprehensive corrective action plan within three days
· Suspend the stocking of new fingerlings until all deficiencies are addressed

A ten-member task force has been deployed to oversee compliance at the site, and the facility has been fined GH¢240,000 as an administrative penalty.

“Failure to comply will result in the closure of the facility,” the Minister warned.

Tropo Farms Commended

In contrast, Tropo Farms received praise from the Minister for maintaining high operational and environmental standards. The farm was commended for its structured systems, strong biosecurity protocols, and contributions to food security and employment.

Nationwide Crackdown

The Ministry has reiterated a zero-tolerance stance on non-compliance, adding that similar inspections will be extended to aquaculture facilities across the country.

The enforcement action is backed by the Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2025 (Act 1146), and the Fisheries Regulations, 2010 (L.I. 1968).