Yucatan: Octopus Capital & Fishing Powerhouse

The Yucatan Peninsula, encompassing the states of Yucatan, Campeche, and Quintana Roo, is a vital hub for Mexico's fishing and aquaculture industry. Yucatan, in particular, is a leading producer of octopus, accounting for 94% of the country's total production.

Although the grouper season has fallen short of expectations, the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (Sader) emphasizes the significance of the region. In 2023, the peninsula produced 98,310 tonnes of fishery products, with Yucatan contributing 47.6% or 46,824 tonnes. Of this, 39% was octopus, solidifying Yucatan's position as the peninsula's primary producer.

This production volume translates to over 5,500 million pesos in value, with Yucatan contributing 3,381 million pesos or 59.3%. Despite a lower tonnage, Yucatan's contribution outstripped that of Campeche and Quintana Roo, which contributed 2,020 million pesos (35.4%) and 300 million pesos (5.26%) respectively.

In terms of lobster production, Yucatan led with 701 tonnes, followed by Quintana Roo with 311 tonnes. Yucatan and Campeche also dominated in octopus production, contributing 18,407 and 6,984 tonnes respectively. This accounted for 94.33% of the total national cephalopod production of 26,915 tonnes.

Progreso serves as Yucatan's main port, with grouper, snapper, mojarra, lobster, and villajaiba being the predominant species. Campeche's catch mainly consists of robalo, shrimp, snail, and mackerel, while in Quintana Roo, grouper, octopus, shrimp, mojarra, and lobster are the main catch.

The region's fishing activity is not only a significant source of employment and food security but also plays a vital role in environmental sustainability and preserving the culture and traditions of coastal communities. The industry's potential for future growth is expected to bring widespread benefits to the region and the country as a whole.