WATCH: Trump signs proclamation opening more protected ocean areas to commercial fishing
PBS NewsHour – Politics — 2026-06-11 17:48:00 — www.pbs.org
Trump Opens Pacific Marine Monuments to Commercial Fishing, Claims Move Will Boost U.S. Seafood Industry
President Donald Trump has issued a proclamation opening three marine protected areas in the Pacific Ocean to commercial fishing, a move he said will boost the U.S. seafood industry. The decision targets protections established during the administrations of Presidents Obama and Bush, which Trump argued have stifled the country’s ability to compete in the global seafood marketplace.
Trump’s Position on Marine Protections
Trump has repeatedly criticized marine protections, claiming they hinder economic growth and the competitiveness of American fisheries. Earlier this year, he moved to reestablish commercial fishing in the Northeast Canyons and Seamounts Marine National Monument off New England, reversing Obama-era restrictions.
On Thursday, Trump’s action focused on opening portions of the Mariana Trench Marine National Monument, Papahānaumokuākea Marine National Monument, and Rose Atoll Marine National Monument. These areas, located in remote parts of the Pacific, were previously protected zones meant to preserve vital marine habitats.
Fact-Checking Trump’s Claims
Trump’s assertion that these protections “stifle the country’s ability to compete in the global seafood marketplace” is disputed by environmental groups and marine scientists. These experts argue that the protected zones provide essential habitat for rare and endangered sea life, and that commercial fishing in these areas could threaten biodiversity and long-term fishery sustainability. There is limited evidence that the restrictions have had a significant negative impact on the overall U.S. seafood industry, which draws the majority of its catch from other, unprotected waters.
Criticism and Environmental Concerns
Environmental groups have sharply criticized Trump’s moves, warning that opening these protected areas to fishing undermines efforts to conserve marine ecosystems. They contend that the monuments are crucial for the survival of rare species and for maintaining healthy ocean environments.
Conclusion
President Trump’s decision to open Pacific marine monuments to commercial fishing is consistent with his broader approach of rolling back environmental protections in favor of industry interests. While he claims the move will strengthen the U.S. seafood sector, critics argue it risks long-term harm to vital marine habitats with little proven benefit to American fishermen. The debate highlights the ongoing tension between economic development and environmental stewardship in federal policy.