SanLei, a Mosotho company specializing in trout production, has obtained the prestigious Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification. Developed by the Global Seafood Alliance (GSA), this certification program establishes industry standards for environmentally and socially responsible seafood practices. Being the first company to achieve this distinction, SanLei's accomplishment represents a remarkable milestone in aquaculture within the country and the continent.
"I am immensely proud of the SanLei team for achieving Best Aquaculture Practices certification for our premium products grown in the Kingdom of Lesotho," said Krijn Resoort, CEO of SanLei. "SanLei is proof that you can be a niche global trout producer but still operate under BAP certification."
SanLei has been farming and exporting rainbow trout to the South African and Japanese markets since 2018 and to the United States since 2021. Its products include frozen fillets, portions, and head-on and head-off products.
The sponsorship of this certification was provided by the UK's Trade Forward Southern Africa (TFSA) program, and the execution of the project was carried out by Imani Development. This firm is an economic development consultancy with a notable aquaculture portfolio and regional offices across southern Africa. This fulfilled TFSA's purpose: to support and enhance trade between SACU and Mozambique, focusing on interventions for export markets.
SanLei has thus taken a step forward in its farming production and a further move to continue expanding its exports to other markets.
"I commend SanLei for being a leader in the aquaculture space in Lesotho and attaining BAP certification for both their farm and hatchery," said Iain Shone, Director of Market Development Europe at GSA. "This demonstrates their commitment to producing top quality trout products in a responsible and ethical manner."
SanLei is a premium trout producer situated in Lesotho, known as the "roof of Africa." They operate in the pristine highlands, near the Katse Dam, benefiting from pure water and environment for growing high-quality trout. Furthermore, SanLei adheres to rigorous sustainability standards, minimizing stress on their fish and using a natural diet without additives. They can supply the entire South African market and have expanded their exports to Japan and the USA.
TFSA is a poverty alleviation program that enhances trade within the Southern African Customs Union and Mozambique. It supports businesses in meeting export standards, particularly assisting female-owned enterprises and sectors with high female employment. Moreover, TFSA works through Business Support Organisations to provide targeted assistance and technical cooperation for regional and international markets.
Imani Development is a renowned consultancy firm specializing in economic development. With a strong focus on East and Southern Africa, they provide specialized services to private-sector firms, governments, development agencies, and international organizations. Finally, their expertise lies in private sector development, trade facilitation, and economic growth.
