Interview with Comrade Edward Jackson, Executive President of INPESCA
Seafood is important in our gastronomy, and during Lent it is fundamental, especially for this season. Today we will talk with the Executive President of INPESCA, Edward Jackson.
TL;DR
- Nicaragua's seafood production has surged from 44 million pounds in 2006 to 190 million pounds.
- Exports have grown from 33 million pounds worth $112 million in 2006 to 137 million pounds worth $338 million.
- Employment in the sector has increased from 30,000 to over 44,000 jobs.
- Per capita seafood consumption has risen from approximately 5 pounds to 17.6 pounds.
- INPESCA implements training programs on minimum catch sizes, responsible gear usage, and respecting fishing seasons (vedas).
- The lobster season in 2023 and 2024 showed strong recovery, with projections for 2025 being cautious due to cyclical patterns.
- Seafood exports are sensitive to climate change, with factors like ocean currents and temperature influencing catches.
- Domestic markets are well-supplied, especially during Lent, with popular items including Pargo Rojo, dried fish, conchas, and shrimp.
- Fishermen operate from key coastal areas like Jiquilillo, Las Peñitas, and San Juan del Sur.
- The article highlights the variety of seafood available, including Pacific lobster and wild shrimp, noting seasonal closures for some species.