The president of the National Federation of Farmers and Ranchers of Honduras (FENAGH), Héctor Ferreira, has reiterated concerns over Mexico’s ongoing closure of its borders to Honduran shrimp. Despite hopes for a resolution, Ferreira confirmed that the Mexican market remains inaccessible to Honduran shrimp producers.

Impact on Honduran Shrimp Industry

Last October, the National Association of Aquaculturists of Honduras (ANDAH) sounded the alarm regarding a federal judge’s decision in Sinaloa to suspend the importation of Honduran shrimp to Mexico. This suspension, initially ordered in October, was finalized in January, effectively closing off a significant export destination for Honduran shrimp.

Mexico represents a vital export destination for Honduran shrimp, comprising 27% of the total exported as of November 2023. This amounts to 8,759 metric tons, according to data from the Central Bank of Honduras (BCH). The closure of this market has significant implications for the economic activity of the country, as acknowledged by Ferreira.

Current Export Challenges and Limitations

Presently, Honduran producers face significant challenges in accessing the Mexican market. With only one customs office operational – El Progreso-Yucatán – logistical constraints pose substantial barriers for Honduran exporters. Additionally, the existing option to export cooked shrimp to Mexico, implemented since March 4, falls short of meeting the industry’s needs.

This week, a technical mission from the National Agri-Food Health, Safety, and Quality Service (SENASICA) of Mexico conducted inspections of shrimp farms in the southern zone of Honduras. The mission aims to assess compliance with regulatory standards amidst concerns of product triangulation, particularly with shrimp originating from Ecuador.

Awaiting Resolution

Following the inspections, the mission will submit a report to the District Court of the State of Sinaloa, which instigated the prohibition of shrimp imports from Central America. Honduran shrimp producers remain hopeful for a resolution to reopen the Mexican market, crucial for sustaining the country’s shrimp industry and its contribution to the economy.