Constant monitoring, evidence-based decision-making, and the commitment of artisanal fishermen will be crucial to ensuring the sustainability of the resource.

 

The Ministry of Production, through Ministerial Resolution No. 000123-2025-PRODUCE, has established the Total Allowable Catch Limit (TACL) for giant squid (Dosidicus gigas) at 190,000 tons for the period from January 1 to June 30, 2025. This measure, based on a precautionary approach, may be adjusted as new information becomes available regarding resource availability and environmental conditions.

Vice Minister Barrientos emphasized that the key to success will be the joint efforts of the government, the scientific community, and artisanal fishermen. "We are strengthening the monitoring of oceanographic and biological conditions of giant squid. Our goal is to provide timely information so that fishermen can better plan their activities and sustainably exploit periods of higher resource availability," he stated.

 

Additionally, strategies will be implemented to diversify fishing zones and reduce pressure on specific areas. Similarly, fishermen's capacities will be enhanced through training programs on good fishing practices and sustainability.

 

 

The giant squid fishery (Dosidicus gigas), a vital resource for Peru's artisanal fleet and the national fishing economy, faces a decisive year. After a challenging 2024 characterized by a drastic decline in landings due to oceanographic conditions caused by El Niño, projections for 2025 point to a gradual recovery.

 

According to the Peruvian Sea Institute (IMARPE), the latest ENSO (El Niño-Southern Oscillation) event significantly altered the distribution of giant squid, reducing its availability for fishing. However, the transition to more favorable oceanographic conditions is expected to improve catch levels in the coming months.

 

Vice Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Jesús Barrientos, highlighted the importance of scientific information and sustainable resource management. "2025 will be a year of recovery for the giant squid fishery. We have detailed studies that allow us to establish precise strategies to ensure the sustainability of the resource and the economic stability of our fishermen," he said.

 

 

2024 ended with a landing volume of only 188,345 tons of giant squid, one of the lowest figures in the last decade. In contrast, previous years such as 2023 recorded historic catch levels, reaching 621,852 tons. This stark difference underscores the influence of environmental factors on the resource's dynamics.

 

Recent IMARPE research cruises have revealed that the population structure of giant squid is dominated by medium-sized specimens, suggesting a potential stock recovery. However, experts warn that the fishery's sustainability will depend on constant monitoring and flexible, adaptive fisheries management.

 

While the path to full recovery of the giant squid fishery still presents uncertainties, the fishing sector is approaching 2025 with optimism and a science-based approach. The combination of improved environmental conditions, efficient fisheries management, and the sector's commitment will ensure that artisanal fishing remains a vital activity for the national economy.

 

With responsible management and continuous monitoring, 2025 could mark the beginning of a new chapter for this important fishery.

 

Related News:

• A New Direction for Squid

• IIMARPE: Report on the 'Giant Squid (Dosidicus gigas) Research Cruise'

• Historic Milestone: Peru Establishes New Regulatory Framework for Sustainable Giant Squid Fisheries Management

• Peruvian Government Strengthens Artisanal Fishing with Update to the General Fisheries Law Regulation

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