Muscat – The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources issued a ministerial decision today that imposes a ban on the fishing, collection, possession, trade and transport of sea cucumbers. According to Article 1 of the decision, the prohibition takes effect from the date of issuance and remains in force until 1 November 2027. The ban covers all activities related to sea cucumbers, including their sale, purchase, export and any associated operations. It also prohibits the possession of sea cucumber‑harvesting tools or equipment on fishing vessels, boats or near coastal and fishing sites during the prohibited period. An exemption is provided for sea cucumbers that were legally harvested before the decision’s effective date. These pre‑harvested specimens may be dealt with, including exported, only if the parties involved hold permits issued by the relevant authority in accordance with Article 2 of the decision.