Strengthening of inland fisheries information systems in the Lower Mekong Basin (basinwide). Project summary

Abstract

The inland fisheries of the Mekong River basin represent a vital resource with significant economic value. The present inland fishery statistical systems for the riparian countries of the lower Mekong River basin are extremely poor, except for Thailand, and have not been useful for the sound management of the resources either on a national or regional (basin-wide) basis. Details are given of a project to develop a basin-wide fishery statistics and information system, based on the concept of capacity strengthening in each riparian country. National statistical systems are to be fortified, and the data collection and storage systems developed are to be enhanced by training in data analysis. The major objective is to make each country self-sufficient in these respects and the priority will be sustainability of the system.