The Nautical Tourism Association of Panama (ATN), calls to the National Government to amend Executive Decree No. 13 of November 1, 2023 and create a comprehensive plan that includes the prohibition of trawling fisheries in order to maintain the ecological balance and slow down the irreversible destruction of the maritime ecosystem.

The ANT considers that the execution of Executive Decree No. 13 of November 1, 2023, which recognizes the practice of trawling, violates article 119 of the National Constitution, and that this type of fishing has been allowed, however, this contravenes the existence of the marine ecosystem, which is one of the great attractions and natural resources of the country.

They assure that article 119 provides that the State and all the inhabitants of the national territory have the duty to promote social and economic development that prevents environmental pollution, maintains the ecological balance and prevents the destruction of ecosystems.

However, the association indicated that focused on nautical tourism, they welcome to ensure the implementation of the Master Plan for Sustainable Tourism Development of Panama, so they support sport fishing and recreational navigation, as long as they do not affect biodiversity and seabed.