A. M. 
El Salvador is preparing for the start of the second marine shrimp ban of this year in october. The measure is being implemented in the country to protect the reproduction period of this species. The ban on fishing for this shellfish will be in effect for more than a month, for both small-scale fishermen and commercial vessels off the Salvadoran coast. While the break entails many challenges, it is necessary to continue offering this product.
Operational challenges and net limitations for artisanal fishing
Artisanal fishermen in the Port of La Libertad say that during this time, they cannot use some nets that are essential for fishing. During this period, mesh sizes 3 and 4 are permitted. However, the net prohibited during the ban is the one used to catch smaller fish that serve as bait.
For those dedicated to fishing, the ban is a challenge. A fisherman explained that he can walk around until 7 p.m. looking for bait, and if there is not any, they do not even cover their expenses.
Strict penalty regime for Non-Compliance
If the measure is violated, there are various penalties:
• Artisanal Fishermen: The penalty is 20 times the minimum wage corresponding to the commerce and industry sector, which translates to more than US$7,000.
• Industrial Ships: The fine amounts to 50 times the minimum wage, or more than US$18,000.
Commercial strategies to mitigate the shortage
Although fishing for marine shrimp is prohibited, merchants who sell this product say they are prepared for their customers. The strategy consists of stockpiling the product: they catch the shrimp, store it well after leaving the sea, and store it for a month or two weeks, then gradually release it for sale.
Additionally, the supply is complemented by farmed shrimp, which they call hatchery shrimp. Among the farmed products, they offer jumbo shrimp, which yield 8 to 9 shrimp per pound, and medium shrimp, which cost US$5 per pound. Although a ban may reduce some fishing activities, its importance is and will continue to be key to preserving marine species, especially when they are part of the human food supply chain.
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