The Argentinean Bonaerense anchovy (Engraulis anchoita) semi-pelagic mid-water trawl net fishery has become the first MSC certified anchovy fishery in the world. The fishery, which is located in the South West Atlantic, has been certified following independent assessment to the MSC standard for sustainable, well-managed fisheries. Products from the fishery will now be eligible to bear the blue MSC ecolabel.
About the fishery
There are two management units in Argentine Federal Waters, North (Bonaerense) and South (Patagonico) of 41°S. This certification covers the Bonaerense management unit only. The client group consists of two companies: Delicias S.A. and Centauro S.A. The client companies have five high seas ice-chilling vessels and together in 2010 they landed approximately 10 to 15 percent of the catch of the Bonaerense anchovy stock. In 2010, the clients caught approximately 2,000 metric tons of anchovies. The clients welcome inquiries from other eligible anchovy fishers in the area interested in sharing the MSC certificate.
Argentine anchovy is marketed primarily for human consumption. Eighty percent of the catch is exported, with the most important export markets being Spain, Peru and Morocco. The rest is for internal Argentine 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.
What the fishery says
Carlos Rodriguez, speaking for the client group says, “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. We would also like to thank the National Institute of Fisheries Research and Development (INIDEP) of Argentina for their valuable contribution to the achievement of this certification.”
What the MSC says
“MSC congratulates the Argentinean Bonaerense anchovy fishery on becoming MSC certified,” said Kerry Coughlin, regional director for MSC Americas. “Argentine and other Latin American fisheries are important components of the global fish trade. MSC certification of this anchovy fishery, and other fisheries engaged throughout Latin America, will help them in markets worldwide and serve as an example for others in the region of the benefits of certification for sustainable fishing.”
