The Argentinean Bonaerense anchovy semi-pelagic mid-water trawl net fishery has become the first Marine Stewardship Council certified anchovy fishery.
The client groups for the certification consist of Delicias S.A. and Centauro S.A. Together, the companies have five high-seas ice-chilling vessels and landed about 10 to 15 percent of the catch of the Bonaerense anchovy stock in 2010. Last year, the clients caught about 2,000 metric tons of anchovies.
Eighty percent of the Argentine anchovy (Engraulis anchoita) harvest is exported, with the most important markets being Spain, Peru and Morocco. The remainder stays in domestic markets.
Products derived from the fishery include anchovy fillets in oil, vacuum-packed anchovy fillets, anchovies in brine, salt-cured anchovies, anchovy fillet marinated in vinegar and whole frozen anchovies.
“We are committed to fishing in a responsible and sustainable manner, and protecting the natural resources of the ocean is a key component of our business. We are proud to be recognized as the first MSC-certified anchovy fishery in the world and look forward to the benefits of MSC certification for our companies,” said Carlos Rodriguez, speaking for the client group. “We would also like to thank the National Institute of Fisheries Research and Development of Argentina for their valuable contribution to the achievement of this certification.”
