Peru Introduces New Regulations To Strengthen Squid Resource Management

In order to ensure the sustainable development of squid (Dosidicus gigas) resources and maintain the stable development of Peruvian artisanal fisheries, the Peruvian Ministry of Production (PRODUCE) recently issued Ministerial Resolution No. 00051-2025-PRODUCE to formally implement a series of new management measures. These measures are designed to protect the species' populations while ensuring the livelihoods of the country's more than 14,000 artisanal fishermen.

Under the new regulations, squid fishing operations will be subject to stricter supervision. First of all, all fishermen must hold a valid fishing license before they can operate; secondly, only professional fishing gear (jigging lines) for fishing for squid is allowed, and the use of other fishing gear that may have an adverse impact on the ecosystem is prohibited; in addition, all catches must be landed at designated unloading locations, and the relevant sites must be officially authorized by the General Directorate of Supervision, Inspection and Sanctions of Peru.

Jesús Barrientos, Peru's Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, stressed that these new measures will ensure the sustainable use of squid resources, while helping to restore artisanal fisheries catches and provide stable supply for domestic and foreign markets. He pointed out that this decision was based on scientific research and technical standards to achieve long-term sustainable development of one of the country's most important fishery resources without destroying the balance of the marine ecosystem.

PRODUCE's decision-making relies on the research recommendations of the Peruvian Marine Institute (IMARPE). The IMARPE report points out that squid fishing (jigging) is currently the most environmentally friendly fishing method. It is highly selective and can effectively reduce the bycatch rate of other marine life and reduce the impact on the marine ecological environment.

In Peru, the squid industry is vital to the country's economy. Currently, Peru has 4,475 artisanal fishing boats, directly employing more than 14,000 fishermen, and the entire industry chain involves the livelihood of about 70,000 people. Strengthening management is therefore not only about the sustainable use of resources, but also about the economic well-being of tens of thousands of people in the industry.

Barrientos said that the Peruvian government is always committed to supporting artisanal fisheries and promoting responsible management of marine resources. "We hope to find the best balance between economic development and ecological protection to ensure that fishery resources can benefit the national economy in the long term while maintaining the health of the marine ecosystem."

The implementation of this policy marks the further strengthening of sustainable fisheries management by the Peruvian government. With increased supervision, the Peruvian squid industry will be more standardized in the future, while ensuring a stable supply of this resource in the global market and continuing to provide economic support to local fishing communities.