Italian restrictions on Tunisian red shrimp rekindle the debate on quotas. Tunis disputes the data used, while the Italian press opposes shipowners and importers.
A disputed quota
According to Rome, the catch certificates totaled at least 50.96 tons, for a Tunisian quota of 36 tons in 2026. The June 5 circular calls for the suspension of authorizations for certified cargo after the ceiling is exhausted on May 15, and recommends that buyers consider stopping orders until the end of 2026.
Tunis disputes the data and requests a revision of the quota from the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (CGPM).
Key figures
- 36 tons: Tunisian quota of giant red shrimp in 2026.
- 50.96 tons: captures certified according to the Italian administration.
- 34%: Italy’s share of Tunisian fish exports at the end of July 2026
Divergent interests in Italy
For Pesceinrete, the restrictions benefit Italian shipowners, especially in Mazara del Vallo, but penalize importers. Agenzia Nova reports criticism on the differences in costs and regulations between fleets. These views do not prove any illegal competition.
Italy absorbed 34% of Tunisian exports of fishery products from January to July 2026, all species combined. The losses specific to the red shrimp remain unknown, despite the concerns expressed by the professionals.
The decrease in the prices of certain shrimps on Tunisian markets mainly concerns other species; its link with Italian restrictions has not been demonstrated. The CGPM meets in Rome from October 26 to 30.
