In Nayarit, the illegal extraction of shrimp is reaching alarming levels. According to Juan de Dios Fernández, leader of the State Ribereña Federation, over 3,000 tons of shrimp are being stolen each year. This rampant theft poses a serious threat to local shrimp producers and raises questions about the effectiveness of regulatory bodies in the region.

Corruption Among Fishing Officers

Fernández has voiced deep concerns about the effectiveness of fishing officers, claiming they are not fulfilling their duties and are increasingly corrupt. He alleges that many officers are colluding with criminal groups involved in the illegal shrimp trade.

The illegal shrimp trade is causing severe financial harm to local producers. Fernández estimates that about 50% of the annual shrimp production in the region is being illegally harvested, equating to approximately 3,000 tons. This illicit activity not only reduces the shrimp available for legitimate businesses but also destabilizes market prices.

Lack of Communication with Authorities

Fernández also pointed out a troubling lack of communication with fishing authorities. As the anticipated lifting of the shrimp ban approaches, scheduled for the second week of August or no later than September 8, there has been no dialogue between producers and regulators.

Compounding the challenges faced by local shrimp producers is the influx of imported shrimp from other countries, primarily Ecuador. Fernández emphasized that these imports create unfair competition, as they are often sold at prices lower than those of local shrimp.