Pattaya: An investigation has been ordered into the presence of black-chinned tilapia found on Pattaya beach, amid fears they could affect the ecosystem and local fishing livelihoods. Prime Minister Wacharapol has directed the Department of Fisheries to urgently investigate after a video surfaced showing a large number of black-chinned tilapia being caught with nets off Pattaya beach in Chonburi province. He also mandated an immediate survey of nearby areas and high-risk zones for fish infestations to implement suitable prevention and response measures.
According to Thai News Agency, Mr. Watcharaphol Khaokham, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Cooperatives, revealed that following the discovery of black-chinned tilapia near Pattaya beach and the circulation of videos showing people catching large numbers of them with nets, public concerns have arisen regarding their impact on the marine ecosystem and the livelihoods of local fishermen.
The Department of Fisheries has been urgently tasked with investigating the facts in the area in question. They are also required to survey nearby areas and regions where black-chinned tilapia have been reported to assess the situation and implement measures to address the outbreak.
Mr. Watcharaphol emphasized that earlier on May 6, 2026, he had instructed the Department of Fisheries to urgently survey the spread of black-chinned tilapia nationwide. If there is an increase in the spread, the response plan must be adjusted and systematic measures must be implemented to tackle the problem.
The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives reiterated its commitment to preventing impacts on aquatic resources and ecosystems and fully addressing the impact on local fishermen.