Chilean artisanal fishing sector identifies regulatory and infrastructure challenges

During a national seminar held at the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), representatives of the artisanal fishing sector met with public authorities to evaluate the progress and difficulties of the Ley de Caletas (Cove Law) nearly a decade after its publication.

Key challenges identified include lengthy processes for land designation and regularization, limited resources for infrastructure maintenance, and the need for better administrative capacity within fishing organizations. Participants also emphasized the importance of integrating women into cove management and preparing coastal communities for the impacts of climate change.

Osvaldo Urrutia, the Undersecretary of Fisheries and Aquaculture, stated that the goal of the meeting was to gather direct experiences from sector actors to improve and refine the legislation for the future of the artisanal fishing industry.