Economic and biological crisis in South American fishing

The fishing sectors in Argentina and Peru are facing significant economic and biological challenges. In Argentina, Senator Maximiliano Abad proposed Bill 1256/26 to declare a 180-day state of emergency for the fresh fish sector to protect employment and mitigate rising fuel and tax costs. The Argentine Patagonian Chamber of Fisheries (CAPIP) has called for fiscal relief and reduced export duties to combat international competition and high financing costs. In Mar del Plata, industry leaders report a decline in landings, causing activities to shift toward southern provinces and neighboring countries.

In Peru, the Ministry of Production previously ordered the closure of the first 2026 anchoveta fishing season in the north-central coastal zone due to high juvenile biomass and poor somatic conditions linked to El Niño. Expanding on these biological concerns, the Peruvian government has declared a 120-day emergency for the fishing and aquaculture subsectors via Supreme Decree N.° 012-2026-PRODUCE. This measure responds to warnings from the ENFEN Multisectoral Commission regarding a potential El Niño event that could range from “strong to extraordinary.” The Ministry of Production must approve an Emergency Plan within 15 business days to manage resources and ensure processing continuity. To support the industry, the decree includes facilitating access to financing and providing concessions for the payment of administrative, fishing, aquaculture, and sanitary fines.