Seafood Exports Reach 338 Million Dollars
The fishing sector contributes significantly to the nation's economic growth, enabling the supply of the domestic market and exports to other countries.
TL;DR
- Fishing sector revenue has grown from $112 million in 2006 to $338 million.
- Production has increased from 44 million pounds to 190 million pounds.
- Exports have risen from 33 million pounds to 137 million pounds.
- Employment in the sector has grown from 30,000 to over 44,000 jobs.
- Per capita seafood consumption has increased from approximately 5 pounds to 17.6 pounds.
- INPESCA provides training on responsible fishing practices, including minimum catch size, respecting fishing bans, and handling for safety.
- Lobster production is projected to reach 13.5 million pounds this year, despite a current fishing ban.
- The sector is highly sensitive to climate change, impacting production and projections.
- Last year (2025), Nicaragua achieved a production of 154 million pounds and exports of 94 million pounds, generating $225 million.
- The domestic market is supplied by artisanal fishermen, with prices generally remaining stable.
- Key fishing areas include Jiquilillo, Las Peñitas, El Tránsito, Masachapa, Casares, La Boquita, San Juan del Sur, and Gigante.
- Caribbean lobster is described as more orange/pinkish and larger than Pacific lobster.
- Shrimp season is ending, with a two-month ban starting in April.
- Popular market items include snapper, conch for cocktails, dried fish, and fish for soup.