ARGENTINEAN RED SHRIMP FISHERY ACHIEVES MSC CERTIFICATION

Argentinean Red Shrimp Fishery achieves MSC Certification, setting a benchmark for sustainable fishing in Argentina. After a decade of dedicated improvement efforts, the Argentinean red shrimp (Pleoticus muelleri) fishery has reached a major milestone; achieving MSC certification for its onshore portion. This certification recognises the fishery’s commitment to sustainability and responsible management, making it the first coastal shrimp fishery in Argentina to be MSC certified.

The onshore portion of the fishery consists of small and medium-sized chilling vessels fishing along the Argentinean Chubut providence coast, a region renowned for its rich marine biodiversity and vital fisheries sector, located in southern Argentina, in the Patagonia region. The shrimp is carefully processed in land-based plants by a group of traditional fishing companies, playing a crucial role in supporting the regional economy and sustaining jobs in coastal communities. Their ongoing commitment to responsible fishing practices demonstrates the growing importance of sustainability in Chubut’s seafood sector.

Federico Angeleri, representative of the client group, highlighted the significance of this achievement: 

“Obtaining MSC certification is the result of hard teamwork, ensuring the long-term sustainability of shrimp fishing in Chubut. We take great pride in contributing to the region’s economic development while maintaining the highest environmental standards. This certification opens new doors in the market, allowing us to offer a certified, high-quality shrimp product.”

The fishery underwent rigorous assessment to meet MSC’s strict environmental and sustainability standard. Efforts to enhance fishery management, improve monitoring, and reduce environmental impact have played a crucial role in obtaining MSC certification. This will not only help the long-term health of the shrimp population but also help protect the marine ecosystem. 

The fishery has an annual catch of approximately 72,000 metric tons. Fishing takes place between October/November and March/April, ensuring responsible harvesting aligned with the species’ life cycle. The certification has been headed by a several fishing companies including, Achernar, Agropez, Cabo Virgenes, Consermar, Food Partners Patagonia, Greciamar, Iberconsa de Argentina, La Escalerona, and Pesquera Veraz, with support from Cedepesca. 

Obtaining MSC certification represents more than just environmental victory, it also offers possible economic benefits. With global demand for certified sustainable seafood on the rise, this certification will improve the fishery’s ability to access global markets, responding to the growing expectations of retailers and consumers worldwide. 

MSC Latin America Programme Director, Cristian Vallejos, also celebrated the achievement stating:

“This certification is a significant step forward for sustainable fishing in Argentina. It demonstrates the dedication of the fishery to environmental responsibility and highlights the positive impact that collaboration and improvement efforts can have on the industry. We hope this milestone inspires other fisheries in the region to continue their improvements.”

With the onshore portion now MSC certified, the fishery is almost 100% engaged with the MSC programme. The offshore portion, which operates in federal waters and catches approximately 140,000 metric tons annually, is currently under assessment, with hopes of achieving certification by the end of 2025.