Squid fishing is dying: more than 9,000 boats operate without control and are driving down prices due to state inaction

The squid fishing industry is facing a severe economic crisis characterized by plummeting prices and a lack of regulatory oversight. Reports indicate that over 9,000 vessels are operating without sufficient control, creating an environment where artisanal fishers are unable to compete effectively. This instability is exacerbated by state policies that have increased capture quotas despite the absence of necessary monitoring infrastructure for the growing number of active vessels.

This situation has resulted in a significant downturn for the artisanal supply chain, as the influx of unregulated fishing activity drives down market values. The combination of increased resource availability and insufficient state intervention has created a contradiction that threatens the long-term viability of the sector.