Update on Abalone appeals: Anticipated date for finalisation

4 September 2025

The Minister of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, Dr Dion George, has indicated that he will endeavour to finalise his decisions on the appeals lodged against the decisions taken by the Deputy Director General: Fisheries Management on exemptions for the 2024/2025 Abalone fishing season, by 31 October 2025.

Minister George has emphasised the importance of concluding the process without delay, as the livelihoods of many fishers, their families and coastal communities depend on timely, fair and lawful decisions in the abalone sector.

“It is imperative that these appeals are finalised, as anticipated, so that certainty and stability can be restored, while upholding the principles of sustainability and compliance under the Marine Living Resources Act,” said Minister George.

Approximately 140 appeals were submitted to the Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment, from aggrieved parties who were not issued an exemption for the 2024/2025 fishing season under section 81 of the Marine Living Resources Act, 1998 (Act No. 18 of 1998). These appeals are being processed in terms of section 80 of the MLRA and the associated Regulations.

Following receipt of all outstanding information from the Delegated Authority, the Department’s Appeals Directorate has commenced with the processing and administration of these appeals. The appeals process will be concluded in a fair, transparent and efficient manner.

“I assure all interested parties that the abalone appeals are receiving the necessary attention in line with inclusive and sustainable economic growth,” said Minister George.

For media enquiries, please contact:

Thobile Zulu-Molobi
Mobile:+27 82 513 7154
E-mail: tmolobi@dffe.gov.za

Chelsey Wilken
Mobile: 074 470 5996
E-mail: cwilken@dffe.gov.za