The future of the jumbo squid fishery depends on stronger regional cooperation, science-based management and full traceability across the supply chain, say experts during this year’s CONXEMAR International Fair in Vigo, Spain.
During the panel ‘Jumbo Squid: Science, Management and Markets’, organised by Sustainable Fisheries Partnership (SFP) and Pesca Sustentable, industry leaders and policymakers highlighted growing instability in the world’s largest cephalopod fishery.
Environmental variability, limited regional data and fragmented management are creating uncertainty in key markets, especially Europe – the main destination for jumbo squid exports.
“Chile and Peru have made significant progress, but without a stronger regional response within South Pacific Regional Fisheries Management Organization, the risk remains,” said Alfonso Miranda, president of Calamasur.
“Coordination among countries to improve stock assessment and adopt compatible management rules is indispensable. The market should drive these improvements by conditioning access on traceability and the fight against IUU fishing.”
Yobana Bermúdez, general director of CONXEMAR, emphasised Europe’s growing demand for responsibility and transparency. “Jumbo flying squid is a key resource for Spain and Europe,” she said.
“The EU’s new traceability requirements aim to ensure a stable supply and better management. Coastal states must coordinate to guarantee transparency and supply stability, facilitating access to European markets under strict HACCP standards.”
From the industry perspective, Sindy Parraguez of Japan’s Matsuoka Co. said, ‘Instability in Peru directly affected our planning. Reliable information like Chile’s catch data is vital for strategy and client communication. Traceability and consistent reporting are now competitive advantages.”
Panellists concluded that aligning management under the SPRFMO, improving real-time data sharing and adopting ecosystem-based approaches are critical. Without swift, coordinated action, they warned, the jumbo squid fishery and the livelihoods it supports, could face significant decline.
