Tthe application of a system of differentiated catch limits for artisanal vessels with valid fishing permits

PRODUCE Confirms Orderly Continuation of Artisanal Bonito Fishing with Differentiated Quotas and November Spawning Closure

PERU
Friday, October 10, 2025, 04:00 (GMT + 9)

The Measure, Backed by IMARPE, Aims to Ensure the Sustainability of the Resource, a Key Staple for the Peruvian Diet and Economy

LIMA — The Ministry of Production (PRODUCE) has reaffirmed its commitment to the sustainable development of artisanal fishing for bonito (Sarda chiliensis chiliensis), a vital resource in the Peruvian food basket and national economy. Through Ministerial Resolution N.° 00331-2025-PRODUCE, the sector has mandated an orderly continuation of extraction activities, implementing a technical and adaptive management scheme based on scientific evidence from the Peruvian Sea Institute (IMARPE).

The overall maximum catch limit for bonito for the artisanal sector in 2025 has been set at approximately 87,000 tonnes, following IMARPE’s recommendations to ensure the biomass remains at healthy levels.

Differentiated Catch Limit Distribution

The core measure of the new resolution is the application of a system of differentiated catch limits for artisanal vessels with valid fishing permits. This approach seeks to ensure progressive and balanced development of the fishery based on the size and operational capacity of each fleet.

The Minister of Production, Sergio González, emphasized the goal of achieving "a balance between the sustainability of the resource and the well-being of artisanal fishermen. Our commitment is for this activity to continue in an orderly, scientifically-based manner.”

The distribution of catch limits for the October to December period is structured as follows:

The Vice Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Jesús Barrientos, stressed: “We are applying an orderly and predictable management of the bonito fishery, where every measure has a clear technical basis. This way, fishermen can continue their work safely and within a framework that protects the resource and their future.”

November Spawning Closure and Economic Significance

To protect spawning and ensure resource renewal, PRODUCE has established a reproductive closed season (veda) to be enforced across the entire Peruvian coastline from November 1 to 30. This conservation measure, based on fishery biology, aims to maintain a balance with the economic stability of artisanal fishermen.

The bonito fishery is critical to Peru.

• High Consumption: Bonito is the second most consumed marine resource by Peruvian households, with a per capita consumption of approximately 3.2 kg per person, thanks to its high protein content and affordable price.

• Economic Impact: In 2023, the total landing of bonito reached 116,815 tonnes, contributing 10.7% to the production value for Direct Human Consumption (DHC). The activity generates around 20,000 jobs (direct and indirect).

• Exports: Although the majority of bonito is destined for the domestic market for fresh consumption, the value of bonito-based product exports reached US$11 million in 2023.

With this provision, PRODUCE strengthens its commitment to a modern, formalized, and sustainable artisanal fishing sector, ensuring the Peruvian sea remains a vital source of food and development for the country's fishing communities.

editorial@seafood.media
www.seafood.media

Print