Complete Maritime Profile & Reviews of Sun-Flower7

In a decisive move against illegal fishing practices, Thai and South Korean authorities have initiated proceedings against the fishing vessel 'Sun Flower 7', which is suspected of participating in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities. On March 9, 2023, officials in Bangkok intercepted the reefer before it could offload over 4,000 metric tons (MT) of tuna, valued at approximately USD 7.4 million. Following this incident, on May 10, South Korea's Ministry of Fisheries imposed a hefty fine of USD 150,000 (EUR 138,000) on the vessel for severe breaches of its distant-water fishing regulations, as reported by the Environmental Justice Foundation (EJF). Authorities from both nations have charged the 'Sun Flower 7' with illegally harvesting fish-aggregating devices (FADs) within the exclusive economic zone of Kiribati, without possessing the necessary permits. The EJF has also criticized South Korea's distant-water fishing fleet for systemic issues regarding compliance with FAD regulations throughout the Western and Central Pacific Ocean. A recent EJF report indicated that the 'Sun Flower 7' is part of a broader network, as it is one of at least 10 South Korean fishing vessels suspected of engaging in illicit fishing within Kiribati waters and the high seas managed by the Western and Central Pacific Fisheries Commission.