Mexico Declares Sargassum a National Fishing Resource

Mexico has declared sargassum a national fishing resource, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (SADER). The update to the National Fisheries Charter allows harvesting on the high seas from 7 August 2025.

The yellow-brown seaweed, native to the Atlantic, has plagued the Caribbean region for years. Its mass beach landings have harmed tourism, raised health concerns, and affected coastal ecosystems.

Under the new classification, vessels can intercept sargassum before it reaches land. Mexican authorities intend to collect up to 945,000 tonnes annually for various products.

The seaweed can be converted into animal feed, fertilisers, biofuel, bioplastics, textiles, bricks and water treatment products. In Quintana Roo, biofuel development is already underway, according to Mexican News Daily.