Why is it urgent to formalize the artisanal fishing of squid, an activity that moves 850 million dollars a year?

In the economy of Peruartisanal fishing is one of the most important sectors that also moves the livelihood of thousands of families, since the artisanal fishing of squid is the second most important fishery in the country, after the anchovy. Proof of this is that it has produced, for many years, more than 50% of the world landings of this resource, according to the study by experts.

Marylia Vargas, a specialist in fishing formalization from the Peruvian Society of Environmental Law (SPDA), spoke with La República and informed that the level of capture of the squid on average is 500,000 tons per year, which represents between 9% and 15% of Fisheries Gross Domestic Product in Peru.

He also mentioned that, according to the data reported in 2019, the squid exports reached more than 850 million dollars in that year. In addition, during the last 30 years, it has landed more than 7.8 million tons, which represents more than 4,000 million dollars in exports.

He also considered that the permits for this activity are very important, since these workers ensure their sources of employment; as well as to guarantee the quality of fishing and food safety. He added that, by having this enabling title, fishermen will be able to access state social programs.

The first to formalize

Precisely this June 28, through the Project for Fishing, in the Caleta San José, in the Lambayeque region12 boats that represent around 100 families of fishermen, received their final permits fishing to carry out their work and not be persecuted for being considered illegal work. In this cove there are a total of 193 boats. And so far the remaining files are being compiled to issue their permits together.

The regional governor of Lambayeque, Jorge Luis Pérez Flores, was present at this event, who considered that “fishermen are not the last wheel of the car, that is why the State must promote formalization. These permits boost the economy and guarantee a growth component. For the fishermen it is a step for them to continue growing ”, he declared.