Fishermen from southern Sonora, Mexico, are hopeful that Claudia Sheinbaum’s presidency will bring much-needed support to their struggling industry. The sector is facing one of its toughest crises, with many challenges.

Plea for Government Support

Ramón Valenzuela Ruelas, president of the Cooperative Loma Parda de Yavaros, expressed the need for governmental attention. “We have many needs and problems, such as the lack of subsidies and equipment, high permit costs, and low support from Bienpesca,” he said.

Valenzuela Ruelas noted the severe difficulties, especially when shrimp and crab fishing is closed. During these times, fishermen mainly catch snails and clams. High gasoline costs, low shrimp catches, weather issues, and fear of shark attacks have all made things worse, he added.

Escalating Costs and Permit Issues

One critical issue is the high cost of fishing permits. Six years ago, obtaining 15 permits cost 18,000 pesos (USD 1,006); now it has skyrocketed to 147,000 pesos (USD 8,210), making it nearly impossible for many to afford.

Due to these challenges, many fishermen are leaving the industry. “Fishing activity has been discouraged, while the authorities continue to show a lot of indifference to our sector,” Valenzuela Ruelas lamented. The fishermen of southern Sonora await the new administration’s policies, hoping for a revival of their industry.