Peru announced that for the period from January 1 to June 30, 2025, the total allowable catch (TAC) of jumbo flying squid (Dosidicus gigas) will be 190,000 tons. The Peruvian Ministry of Production (Produce) noted that constant monitoring, decision-making based on scientific evidence, and the commitment of artisanal fishermen will be important to guarantee the sustainability of this resource, which is facing a decisive year for its recovery.

More favorable oceanographic conditions will allow for improved catch levels

Last year, the Peruvian jumbo flying squid fishery closed the season with a landing volume of only 188,345 tons, one of the lowest figures in the last decade, and almost 70% less than in 2023, which, in contrast, had marked a historic level of catch, reaching 621,852 tons.

This drastic drop in landings was mainly due to the influence of environmental factors on the dynamics of the resource. According to the Peruvian Institute of the Sea (Imarpe), the last ENSO (El Niño Southern Oscillation) event significantly altered the distribution of the jumbo flying squid, reducing its availability for fishing.

However, projections for 2025 point to a progressive recovery, and this transition to more favorable oceanographic conditions will allow for improved catch levels in the coming months. Imarpe's recent research cruises revealed that the population structure of the jumbo flying squid shows a predominance of medium-sized specimens, suggesting a possible recovery of the stock.

With responsible management and continuous monitoring, Produce said, 2025 could mark the beginning of a new era for this important fishery. However, as mentioned above, experts warn that its sustainability will depend on constant monitoring and flexible and adaptive fisheries management.

Government, scientific community and artisanal fishermen's joint work

From Produce, the Vice Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Jesús Barrientos, emphasized that the key to success will be the joint work between the authorities, the scientific community, and the artisanal fishermen, who recently received support from the Government with an update of its General Fisheries Law to strengthen and protect the sector.

"We are strengthening the monitoring of oceanographic and biological conditions of the jumbo flying squid. Our goal is to provide timely information so that fishermen can better plan their activities and sustainably take advantage of the periods of greater availability of the resource," he said.

It was also announced that strategies will be implemented to diversify fishing zones and reduce pressure on specific areas. In addition, the capacities of fishermen will be strengthened through training programs in good fishing practices and sustainability.

From  https://weareaquaculture.com/