KUWAIT CITY, Aug 2: The shrimp fishing season officially began on Friday, August 1 in Kuwait’s economic zone, following the issuance of necessary permits. Engineer Salem Al-Hai, Director- General of the Public Authority for Agriculture Affairs and Fish Resources (PAAAFR), stated in a press release that the launch of the season aims to support marine fish stocks and help supply shrimp to the local market following the end of the annual fishing ban period. He urged all fishermen to strictly adhere to regulations to protect marine resources. Al-Hai added that shrimp fishing within Kuwait’s territorial waters will be permitted starting September 1, using environmentally friendly “Kofa nets” through trawling methods.

Meanwhile, Secretary of the Kuwait Fishermen’s Union Barrak Al- Subaie revealed that the Kuwaiti fishing fleet, consisting of 275 dinghies, launched operations to supply fresh shrimp to the local market, adding that local shrimp have made a strong return to the markets in abundant quantities. He expressed optimism among fishermen, particularly following a successful start to the zubaidi fishing season, which began in mid-July, indicating that this season has helped stabilize the market and the fish prices, with medium-sized zubaidi fish (pomfret) now selling for between KD 40 and KD 60 per basket. According to Al-Subaie, the catch over the past 24 hours included approximately 8 tons of shrimp and 3 tons of zubaidi.

The price of a basket of “Shahamiya” shrimp has reached KD 20, while the price of “Umm Nughira” shrimp ranges between KD 47 and KD 60 in both the Sharq and Fahaheel fish markets. The daily fish auction in Fahaheel takes place at 8:00 am, while the Souq Sharq auction is held after the afternoon prayer. Both auctions have seen high turnout from citizens and consumers. Al-Subaie described the fishermen’s joy as “indescribable,” citing the continuous support and oversight from relevant authorities who are actively working to deal with the challenges faced by the fishermen. He stressed that the true reward for fishermen is the availability of fresh Kuwaiti seafood in the markets in large quantities and at affordable prices.

Al-Subaie also highlighted that fishermen, along with all those working to ensure food security, are essential partners in the country’s sustainable development efforts. He said, “Food is a basic necessity of life. Ensuring its steady availability is a national responsibility.” Al-Subaie expressed his appreciation for the efforts of all leaders in supporting the fishing sector, most notably the Minister of Electricity and Water Subaih Al-Mukhaizeem, Director- General of the Coast Guard Brigadier General Sheikh Mubarak Al-Yousef, Chair of PAAAFR Salem Al-Hai, Assistant Undersecretary of the Ministry of Finance Saad Al-Alati, and officials from the Kuwait National Petroleum Company and other supporting agencies. He praised these leaders for their understanding of the legitimate demands of fishermen, noting that fishing is a time-honored profession deeply rooted in Kuwaiti heritage, and practiced by generations of forefathers. Al-Subaie added that the profession continues to attract dedicated young Kuwaitis who remain optimistic about its future, thanks to God and the continued support of the nation’s leadership.

By Marwa Al-Bahrawi
Al-Seyassah/Arab Times Staff