News in Brief:
– A Ghanaian fishing association is urging the EU to restrict unsustainable fishmeal and fish oil imports, citing threats to local food security and unfair benefits for European companies.
– They propose limitations on imports, support for sustainable practices, and transparency in supply chains.
The Canoe and Fishing Gear Owners Association of Ghana (CaFGOAG) and its partners are urging the European Union (EU) to take action against unsustainable fishing practices in West Africa.
In a statement, reported by a local media outlet, it called for restrictions on imports of fishmeal and fish oil produced from overexploited fish stocks, particularly the small pelagic fish species sardinella, which is a vital food source for local communities.
The surge in demand for fishmeal and fish oil has led to factories using sardinella for these purposes, instead of traditional human consumption. This, coupled with limited investment in the small pelagic value chain for human consumption, is threatening food security and nutrition in the region.
In addition, the focus on these products is displacing artisanal fishers and benefiting European companies, who import them despite the unsustainable practices involved.
Proposed solutions for EU consumers
- Restrict imports from overexploited regions: CaFGOAG and its partners are urging the EU to limit imports of fishmeal and fish oil from regions with overexploited fish stocks, particularly those using sardinella for these purposes.
- Support sustainable practices: They are calling for the EU to support research and investment in sustainable management of small pelagic fish stocks, as well as improvements in the small pelagic value chain for human consumption.
- Transparency and due diligence: The association is urging EU companies importing fishmeal and fish oil to adopt transparent sourcing practices and ensure responsible due diligence in their supply chains.
- Restrict unsustainable aquaculture: They are also asking the EU to consider restricting imports of aquaculture products fed with fishmeal and fish oil from unsustainable sources.
By taking these steps, it believes that the EU can help protect marine resources, ensure food security for local communities, and promote fair and sustainable fishing practices in West Africa.
