Madagascar: Lobster Fishing Suspended to Preserve Resources
In Madagascar, lobster fishing has been suspended since January 1 for three months in six southeastern regions, following similar restrictions in other coastal areas of the country late last year. This annual measure aims to protect the lobster population as exports from Madagascar have nearly doubled in five years. In southeastern Madagascar, lobster fishing supports approximately 100,000 households. Marine experts stress that stricter regulations are crucial to ensure sustainability.
From our correspondent in Antananarivo:
Between January and November 2024, Madagascar exported 424 tons of lobster, according to the Ministry of Fisheries and Blue Economy, compared to 220 tons in 2020. High demand from Europe, Japan, and China has encouraged more Malagasy fishers to turn to lobster, especially since it fetches up to 20,000 ariarys (€4.15) per kilo—a significant price compared to other products, explains Valerio Dizano.
No recent scientific data exists to precisely assess the state of lobster stocks in southeastern Madagascar. However, the increase in fishing raises concerns about resource depletion.
Source: news yahoo
