Law No. 6-A/04 on Aquatic Biological Resources.

This Law establishes the legal framework for the conservation and sustainable use of aquatic biological resources under Angolan sovereignty and regulates fishing, aquaculture and related activities. It applies to maritime and inland waters and, in specified circumstances, to Angolan-flagged vessels outside national waters. Aquatic biological resources, except aquaculture products, are State property. The law adopts principles including sustainable development, responsible fishing, precaution, prevention, participation, polluter-pays and protection of fishing communities.
The law provides for fisheries-management plans, total allowable catches, quotas and fishing-effort limits, closed seasons, minimum sizes, authorized fishing gear, protected areas and licensing. Commercial fishing rights are generally granted for 20 years; artisanal fishing rights are reserved for Angolan persons, while subsistence fishing requires no prior authorization. The four-nautical-mile territorial-sea zone and inland waters are generally reserved for artisanal, subsistence, scientific and recreational fishing. The law protects rare, endangered and protected species, regulates bycatch, prohibits specified fishing methods and pollution, and establishes licensing and technical, environmental and sanitary requirements for fishing vessels, processing establishments and aquaculture.
Institutional responsibility lies principally with the Government, the competent Minister and Ministry, supported by the Integrated Aquatic Biological Resources Management Council, the Technical-Scientific Council, research bodies, and monitoring and inspection services. Fisheries inspectors may stop and inspect vessels, examine documents and catches, collect evidence and order specified enforcement measures. Administrative offences are punishable by fines, with possible ancillary measures including forfeiture, suspension or revocation of fishing rights, certificates or licences, and temporary professional prohibitions. Serious environmental conduct is criminalized and punishable by imprisonment; civil liability also applies for damage to aquatic resources or the aquatic environment. Administrative penalties are subject to judicial appeal.