Local fish sales in Kuwait decline 5.5% in first quarter of 2025

Kuwait’s local fish market witnessed a continued downturn in the first quarter of 2025, with official data showing a 5.5% drop in the quantity of fish sold compared to the same period last year.

According to the Central Administration of Statistics, 508.2 tons of fish were sold during the first three months of the year, down from 538 tons in Q1 2024 — a decline of 29.8 tons.

The market also experienced a sharp 25.3% decline in value, falling from 1.298 million dinars to approximately 970,511 dinars, while the average price per kilogram dropped by 20.9%, from 2.414 dinars to 1.91 dinars, reports Al-Rai daily.

This marks the second consecutive year of decline, following a 26.6% drop in volume and 20.8% drop in value in the first quarter of 2024 compared to 2023.

A primary reason cited for the sales drop is the absence of local shrimp sales during the quarter. The Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources enforces fishing bans during certain months to allow marine species, especially shrimp, to reproduce — part of a broader sustainability strategy.

Fishing seasons in Kuwait are determined by species type, lunar months, and daily fishing cycles, with some species like grouper and shaari are available year-round, while others have more restricted seasons.

The decline in local fish availability and the subsequent impact on price and demand underscore the importance of sustainable fishing practices and market diversification strategies to stabilize the sector moving forward.