The catch of bonito has reached a record of 71,411.88 tons as of May 2024.
The Government of Peru
The Ministry of Production (PRODUCE) of Peru has reported that the catch of bonito (fish related to tuna and mackerel) has reached a record of 71,411.88 tons as of May 2024. This means an 81% increase compared to the same period last year and a 79% increase compared to 2022.
According to PRODUCE, the total landing has been 60,080.76 tons using the purse seine method and 11,331.13 with passive gears (gillnets). Arequipa leads with more than 30,000 tons; followed by Ica, with 11,841 tons; and Áncash, with 9,361 tons.
The Minister of Production, Sergio González, recalled that ensuring an accessible and nutritious source of protein will contribute to preventing anemia cases in the country through the consumption of bonito.
"We will continue to work closely with all stakeholders to maintain this positive momentum and ensure a prosperous future for the fishing industry," he added.
Just a few days ago, PRODUCE confirmed also the unloading of 1,497,302 tons of anchovy and white anchovy for indirect human consumption from the first fishing season of 2024 in the North-Central zone.
According to statistics updated as of May 13, this figure represents 60.5% of the 2,475,000 tons quota assigned for the season that began on April 16, with a mode of 12 cm.