Quintana Roo Invests Over $12.5M to Boost Fishing and Aquaculture Sector

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — The state government has allocated 12.598 million pesos ($12.5 million) to strengthen the fishing and aquaculture sector, according to an official publication in the state’s gazette.

The program, called “Fomento Pesquero y Acuícola,” is managed by the Secretariat of Agricultural, Rural and Fisheries Development (SEDARPE) and covers all 11 municipalities of Quintana Roo. It aims to boost productivity, modernize equipment, and improve incomes for 1,323 fishers and aquaculturists out of a potential universe of 2,198 workers.

The initiative has two main components. The first, economic support, accounts for 10.598 million pesos and will benefit up to 1,302 producers. This includes funding for equipment purchases for 34 fishers, 1,251 electronic grocery cards during closed seasons, and prizes for sport-fishing tournaments to diversify income.

The second component provides in-kind support worth 2 million pesos for up to 21 aquaculturists, delivering inputs to improve production.

Quintana Roo is home to 25 fishing cooperatives, independent fishers, and 22 aquaculture farms. The state ranks fourth nationally in Caribbean lobster production with 355 tons and third in economic value, as much is exported live to Asian markets. It also ranks fifth in octopus production with 214 tons, according to the 2023 Agri-Food Panorama.

The sector faces challenges including poaching and climate change, but officials say the program aims to combat poverty and reduce social gaps in fishing communities.