A sample-based methodology for a Fish Catch Monitoring Assessment Survey (FCMAS), was developed by MaFReDI with technical support from FAO CAPFISH and implemented at selected landing sites in the four coastal provinces from 2021-2024. Data collection covers 8 landing sites and collects data from 224 landings of motorized vessels, every month using a recall survey. 

Data recording is done digitally, using tablets with forms developed using Kobo Toolbox, with the on-line database, available to fisheries staff at national and sub-national levels, through the Fisheries Information Management System (FIMS). The available data is a baseline data set that allows for more meaningful analysis of species catch, gear effort, catch per unit of effort and economic performance, providing inputs for developing marine fisheries policy and evidence-based management decisions.

Besides providing better insights in the status and trends in Cambodian marine fisheries, the findings are also used to improve statistical data reported by coastal provinces, by providing methods for more accurate estimation for sub-national fisheries staff. Efforts have focused on close collaboration with FiAC staff based in coastal provinces, with several training events to transfer the methodology, and introducing standardized classifications for species and gear lists. 

Monthly and annual reports are produced and published on the FiA web-site, as well as the survey manual, that can be downloaded in Khmer and English, here