Peru trains over 300 fishermen to strengthen artisanal activity

The Ministry of Production of Peru (PRODUCE) has launched an assistance program to train over 300 artisanal fishermen in Paita, Sechura, Talara in the Piura region, as well as in Lambayeque and Tumbes.

The program, promoted by CITEpesquero Piura - a center for productive innovation and technology transfer in fisheries -, belongs to the Program Budget 0095: Strengthening of Artisanal Fishing. Through the activities included in this initiative, the skills of fishermen, boat owners, dockworkers, and other sector actors will be strengthened.

In more detail, topics will focus on techniques for extraction, landing, and pre-tasks, as well as the implementation of good fishing practices to ensure the quality of fishery resources and products.

"PRODUCE through the CITES [Centers for Productive Innovation and Technology Transfer] will promote innovation, quality, and productivity of fishery products. It is our commitment to work hand in hand with artisanal fishermen on production strategies to strengthen the national fishing and industry," said the Minister of Production, Sergio González.

From extraction to the preservation of hydrobiological products

To ensure quality and safety at all process stages, manuals for the Hygiene and Sanitation Program (PHS) and Good Handling Practices (BPM) will be developed. Also, onboard preservation techniques will be specifically adapted for artisanal fishing vessels.

The CITEpesquero Piura, which belongs to the Technological Institute of Production, has already successfully trained 50 artisanal fishermen and dock operators in the localities of Yacila, Paita, Parachique, and Sechura.

The center provides service training, design, and development of products, laboratory testing, productive support, research promotion, development, and innovation management, specialized technological information, and formalization and articulation actions.

In late April, the government underlined it will work to strengthen the management and administration of these infrastructures by artisanal fishing communities.

Furthermore, PRODUCE confirmed that for 2024, over $16 million has been allocated for the intervention of 24 artisanal fishing infrastructures nationwide.