The head of Honduras’ Ministry of Economic Development (SDE), Fredis Cerrato, issued a stern warning regarding the ongoing restrictions on shrimp exports to the state of Sinaloa in Mexico. Cerrato emphasized that if these restrictions persist, Honduras may escalate the matter to the World Trade Organization (WTO).

A Last Resort: WTO Intervention

Cerrato expressed reluctance towards involving the WTO, citing the prolonged process involved. However, he underscored that if the restrictions aren’t lifted, Honduras would be compelled to seek resolution through international channels.

Awaiting the National Association of Aquaculturists of Honduras (ANDAH) to formalize their plea for the removal of restrictions, Cerrato stressed the urgency of the situation. The border closure has already led to significant losses, particularly affecting small-scale producers.

Impact on Local Producers

With farms unable to operate and facing diminished capacity for export, the repercussions extend beyond economic losses to the livelihoods of numerous workers in the southern region of Honduras.

Cerrato revealed that the ANDAH’s legal representative is expected to submit the necessary documentation by early next week. The hope is that swift action will be taken to address the issue before further damage is incurred.

Balancing Health and Trade

The crux of the matter lies in the need to either lift the restrictions or conduct thorough investigations to ensure the safety of consumers and producers. Cerrato emphasized the importance of maintaining integrity in trade practices while safeguarding public health.

Mexico stands as the second-largest export destination for Honduran farmed shrimp, constituting 27% of total exports as of November 2023. The impact of these restrictions reverberates through Honduras’ shrimp industry, amounting to 8,759 metric tons according to data from the Central Bank of Honduras (BCH).