Minister Calls for Regulating & Streamlining Algeria’s Domestic Fishing Market

Algeria's Minister of Fishing and Fisheries Productions Sid Ahmed Ferroukhi has called for regulating and streamlining the domestic fishing market in a view to guaranteeing the interests of both producers and consumers. During the first meeting of the National Council of the Algerian Chamber of Fishing and Aquaculture (CAPA), Ferroukhi referred to the problem of the regulation of fishing markets and the marketing of fisheries products in Algeria, announcing that the ministry plans to address this matter in collaboration with further sectors and the various players (professionals, administrations and vocational associations).

In this regard, the minister called for the "establishment of an accurate assessment of the market, which would help formulate urgent solutions to remedy shortcomings." A "favorable economic climate, whether for fishing or aquaculture production" is likely to ensure the "economic viability" of the sector with all of its stakeholders (producers, investors and consumers), he said. The challenge is to introduce market standards to address all the shortcomings that hinder the sought development, he explained.

"Our objective is supporting the development process and the strengthening of production, without ignoring the current shortcomings and their repercussions on producers and consumers," he added. As for the request for swordfish fishing expressed by professionals, he announced these professionals would be accompanied, as part of coordination between national and international organizations. The minister also pledged to grant licenses to artisanal fishing professionals to catch bluefin tuna for the benefit of the national market.

On the sidelines of the work of the National Council of CAPA, the first promotion of training for uneducated seafarers was launched, starting next week.