Nearly 900 tons of shrimp, fish enter local markets in Kuwait
The supply of local fish in markets has doubled since the shrimp fishing season opened in territorial waters, with 13 tons and 800 kilograms of shrimp entering the markets in a single day.
• Abdullah Al-Sarheed, Chairman of the Kuwaiti Fishermen’s Union, said local products remain a cornerstone of sustainable food security and emphasized the importance of preserving and developing them as part of national development plans.
Abdullah Al-Sarheed, Chairman of the Kuwaiti Fishermen’s Union, announced that 425 tons of shrimp and 470 tons of fish — totaling 895 tons — have entered local markets since the start of the shrimp fishing season. The season opened 37 days ago in economic waters and seven days ago in territorial waters. He stressed that the Kuwaiti fishing fleet’s catch is designated for local consumption only, Al Rai newspaper reported.
In a press statement, Al-Sarheed reaffirmed the union’s commitment to supporting food security by providing seafood in adequate quantities and at fair prices. He added that local products remain a cornerstone of sustainable food security and emphasized the importance of preserving and developing them as part of national development plans.
He explained that the supply of local fish in markets has doubled since the shrimp fishing season opened in territorial waters. He noted that 13 tons and 800 kilograms of shrimp entered the markets in a single day, leading to a marked drop in prices.
He pointed out that the price of a basket of shahamiya shrimp recently fell to 17 dinars, while the price of a basket of Umm al-Na’ira ranged between 37 and 50 dinars. He added that this season’s catch is larger than in previous years, attributing the improvement to close cooperation between the union and the authorities overseeing the fishing sector.
Al-Sarheed renewed his call to allow midge fishing in Kuwait Bay, stressing that Kuwait has lost its share of these fish this season, which has now passed more than two months without benefit. He recalled that midge fishing was permitted in the bay in 2001 and said the Fishermen’s Union has formally requested the Environment Public Authority to reopen it. He expressed hope that the request will be approved, with the union pledging to cooperate fully in regulating the process.
He emphasized that the union remains committed to preserving the marine environment and has submitted proposals and recommendations to ensure its protection during fishing trips.
He stressed that earlier restrictions have deprived citizens of mid-range fish, while fishermen continue to aspire to regulate and develop this vital sector. He also urged for alternative fishing methods after the shrimp season to secure fish supplies at reasonable prices year-round.
