Daijiworld Media Network- Kuwait

Kuwait, Aug 3: Kuwait's much-awaited shrimp fishing season officially commenced on August 1 after a seven-month ban, with 297 licensed vessels ready to harvest from the country’s designated economic waters.

The Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR), in coordination with the Kuwait Fishermen Union, confirmed the launch of the season while urging strict compliance with Resolution No. 1094/2024. Authorities have already taken legal action against vessels found violating the trawling ban during the closed period, reinforcing a zero-tolerance policy towards illegal operations.

Shrimp, a key delicacy in Kuwaiti cuisine, represents a vital sector of the country’s fisheries economy. The dominant species harvested are Penaeus semisulcatus and Metapenaeus affinis, which together form over 90% of national shrimp landings.

Shrimp fishing in Kuwait typically relies on bottom trawling—a method that involves dragging heavy nets along the sea floor. While efficient in harvesting shrimp, the technique poses environmental concerns due to high bycatch, including juvenile fish and non-target species. To address this, the government has imposed various conservation regulations, including mesh size controls to prevent the capture of undersized shrimp.

The seasonal fishing ban, observed annually from September through the end of July, is aimed at protecting shrimp populations during their breeding phase. Since 2002, the opening of the season was shifted to August 1 to balance ecological conservation with economic needs.

As part of protective measures, fishing is restricted within three nautical miles of Kuwait’s coast and is entirely prohibited in Kuwait Bay during sensitive periods. Entry to shrimp fishing is also limited, with only a fixed number of industrial trawlers and artisanal dhow boats permitted to operate.

Despite these rules, illegal fishing—particularly by vessels from neighbouring countries—continues to challenge enforcement agencies. However, PAAAFR inspection teams remain active, with patrols along the coast and interception of unauthorized activity.

The shrimp season plays a crucial role in supporting Kuwait’s seafood supply and stabilizing market prices, while also serving as a vital income source for local fishers. Yet, recurring issues such as rising equipment costs, labour shortages, and reduced diesel subsidies threaten to impact the sector’s viability.

The Kuwait Fishermen Union has appealed to the government to reinstate fuel subsidies and provide broader support to ensure the long-term sustainability of the industry. The Union reiterated that while shrimp fishing supports livelihoods, it must be managed within an environmentally responsible framework.

As Kuwait embarks on its shrimp harvest, the initiative underscores the balancing act between resource protection and economic activity—highlighting how modern fisheries can safeguard marine ecosystems while sustaining national food security.