Peru trains more than 17,800 aquaculture agents

The Ministry of Production (PRODUCE) in Peru, through the National Fund for Fisheries Development (FONDEPES), has trained over 17,800 artisanal fishermen and aquaculturists both nationally and internationally this year.

As of last month, 9,220 fishermen and artisanal fishing agents have received technical training in both maritime and continental areas across 14 regions of the country.

"We have conducted over 359 training activities in various locations, improving the skills of artisanal fishermen and benefiting their families across the coast, highlands, and jungle," stated the Minister of Production Sergio González Guerrero.

Therefore, the government aims to address the gaps in technical training within the sector and enhance the productivity of fishermen and aquaculturists.

"Our free and accessible training activities aim to equip fishermen and aquaculturists with the necessary tools to face the challenges in the sector, always with an eye toward the sustainability of marine resources," concluded Guerrero.

In June 2024, PRODUCE conducted 37 training sessions that benefited more than 1,300 fishing and aquaculture agents.

The most in-demand courses

'MAM-010: Certified Experienced Artisanal Fisherman,' which allows fishermen to obtain the Artisanal Fisherman Card, was one of the most in-demand courses.

Additionally, the course on 'Handling and Releasing Sea Turtles, Birds, and Other Incidental Catch Species,' mandatory for parrotfish fishermen, gained significant popularity.

Furthermore, through in-person courses and the virtual program 'Saturdays in Aquaculture,' PRODUCE trained 8,619 individuals, including 1,482 people abroad and 4,803 within Peru, in the first nine months of the year.

Piura and Lima are the regions with the highest participation in training activities, both in artisanal fishing and aquaculture, while Arequipa stood out in artisanal fishing.