Argentina exported 54,843 tonnes of seafood between January and February 2014, a figure which shows an increase of 28.3 per cent over the same period of 2013, when 42,729 tonnes were shipped abroad.
According to statistics from the National Health and Food Quality Service (Senasa), in the first two months of this year 33,848 tonnes of fish were exported, 4.8 per cent less than in the same period in 2013 ( 35,532 tonnes).
Besides, 20,995 tonnes of shellfish were sent abroad, representing a 191.7 per cent increase over the same time last year, when 7,197 tonnes were sold overseas.
The major export records were those of hake (Merluccius hubbsi), with 16,595 tonnes, which represents a 2.4 per cent increase compared to the 16,195 tonnes exported in the first two months of 2013.
They were followed by shrimp (Pleoticus muelleri), with 14,561 tonnes, 156.1 per cent more than during the same period last year (5,685 tonnes).
The largest increase in the exported volume accounted for sales of squid (Illex argentinus), which grew by 1,008.5 per cent, changing from 188 tonnes in the first two months of 2013 to 3,964 tonnes in the same period of 2014.
More stingray (Potamotrygon brachyura) was exported: 547 tonnes compared to 650 tonnes in 2012 (18.8 per cent); and Patagonian scallops (Zygochlamys patagonica), whose shipments changed from 939 tonnes to 1,529 tonnes (62.8 per cent).
Argentina Eyes EU Market for Oyster Exports
The Argentinian Government is working to achieve the export of live oysters and pulps to the European Union market. A move which will help strengthen the regional economy.
Representatives of the National Health Service and Food Quality (SENASA), the Undersecretary of Fisheries and Aquaculture of the Nation and the Department of Fisheries, Ministry of Agricultural Affairs have been working together with the municipality of El Carmen and oyster growers associations, to provide regulatory and technical compliance capable of achieving the export of live oysters and pulp to the EU market.
Among the issues discussed at the meeting included: training for producers, conditioners, transporters and inspectors, quality and safety requirements that ensure traceability of products exported and the packaging and marketing logistics.
Another issue considered was the analytical capacity of the laboratories of the Official Network of SENASA, whose analysis techniques must meet the protocols required by European legislation.
Bahía San Blas, located in the district of El Carmen, is the main oyster producer in the country. The opening of the European market would be an important contribution to strengthening the regional economy.