Mozambican authorities have announced a four-month ban on surface shrimp fishing in four of the country’s provinces, starting in November.
The shrimp closure, due to last from November 15 to March 14, will cover Maputo Bay, the Limpopo River estuary in Gaza province, and the provinces of Inhambane and Sofala, Cesar Mafossa, director of the Maritime Agency, told media. Inspection Department of the National Maritime Institute (Inamar).
In addition to above-water shrimp, that is, from a depth of up to 15 meters, the Mozambican government will also ban the fishing of mangrove crabs from November 1 to December 31.
The measure aims to allow the reproduction of the species, with sanctions for those who do not comply with the prohibition period, including the seizure of fish, in accordance with fishing laws.
“In the end, you can even deprive the criminal of his freedom, [isto] this is also required by law,” said Cesar Mafossa, warning that all establishments selling shrimp and crab must have a declaration of origin, at least during the ban period.
The latest statistics published in 2020 show that Mozambique generates between 70 and 100 million euros annually from the fishing sector.
Most Mozambican fish is destined for European Union markets, especially Portugal and Spain.
Author: Lusa
Source: CM Jornal
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