The Ministry of Fisheries and Maritime Economy has awarded four coastal demersal fishing licenses—specifically for fish and cephalopod species—to a local fishing company. This move is part of a broader strategy to enhance the domestic seafood supply while reinforcing the country’s food sovereignty.
In an official statement released on the evening of May 19, 2026, the ministry clarified that the licenses were granted following a review by the Consultative Commission for Fishing License Allocation, which convened on May 12, 2026, in accordance with national regulations.
The decision aligns with the directives established during the Council of Ministers meeting held on November 26, 2025, which focused on ensuring the availability of fish products in the local market. Authorities stress that the licensing process was conducted with full transparency, inclusivity, and rigorous scientific backing.
According to the statement, several fishing companies were invited in November 2025 to express their interest and outline their commitments under the new framework. Ultimately, only one company opted to participate in this public-private partnership aimed at supplying the domestic market. The selected company has pledged to dedicate its entire catch to local consumption and invest in infrastructure to improve conservation and distribution, particularly in remote regions, to make high-quality seafood more accessible and affordable.
The ministry highlights that the licenses were granted only after a comprehensive scientific assessment of marine resources by the Dakar-Thiaroye Oceanographic Research Center. The study confirmed that there is a viable but limited potential for controlled access to coastal demersal fisheries.
In a context of declining fish stocks and rising seafood prices, the ministry describes this initiative as a pioneering step for Sénégal. It formalizes a regulated industrial fishing mechanism designed to ensure a steady supply of fish to the domestic market.
Officials reaffirm their commitment to balancing sustainable resource management, economic growth, and meeting the nutritional needs of the population. The Ministry of Fisheries and Maritime Economy aims to promote a responsible, transparent, and sustainable approach to marine resource management while boosting local consumption and food self-sufficiency.