Fishing in Cambodia is divided into three types: small, medium and large scale businesses or businesses.

In 2001, as a rationale for addressing excessive fishing and conflict between small fishermen and large-scale fishermen, the government has reformed its fisheries management and regulation. The measure is implemented in two phases. For the first time, in 2001, 56% of fishing lots previously classified for private purposes were identified as reserve fishing grounds. Then, in 2012, all fishing lots were closed and the rights were provided to the Cambodian people to manage their natural aquatic resources in their area by establishing a fishing community.

Fisheries management currently faces many issues related to governance issues. Lack of community involvement is seen as an issue in fisheries conservation. Despite the provision of fishing grounds for community use, illegal fishing and disputes continue to be a challenge.

Establishing a fishing community as a tool to improve fisheries management and ensure local food security was implemented in Cambodia in the 1990s. According to the 2014 Annual Report of the Ministry of Agriculture, Cambodia has 516 fishing communities, of which 477 freshwater fishing communities have 47 water fishing communities. Some 370 fishing communities have been recognized by the Ministry of Agriculture, while 14 other communities are in the process of listing. Besides, 23 communities are in the process of being approved at the sub-national level, 3 of which are some fishing communities No recognition from local authorities.

According to the Fisheries Law, 2006, the fishing community refers to a state-owned fisheries federated community under an agreement between the Fisheries Administration Cabinet with a community or a group of people living in or near a fishing vessel that is dependent on doing so. Fishing for livelihoods and traditional uses, and who manage or use them Section sustainable fishing .4

In 2007, the Cambodian government issued a Sub-Decree on Community Fisheries Management to establish rules for establishing the management and utilization of the Fishery Community in Cambodia. Only small fishing vessels can be used in Community fishing According to Community Fisheries law, it is under the general jurisdiction of the Ministry of Agriculture Equipment and Fisheries.

Despite significant progress, community fishing communities still face challenges such as lack of appropriate law enforcement and lack of capacity, incentives and incomes for community members who are actively involved in management Fishery communities are sustainable.