The onshore component of the Argentine red shrimp fishery has become the country’s first coastal shrimp fishery to achieve MSC certification, marking a major milestone for sustainability in the region.
The Argentine red shrimp (Pleoticus muelleri) fishery has officially achieved certification to the MSC Fisheries Standard, following a decade of focused improvements.
The milestone recognises significant advancements in fishery management, environmental monitoring, and the reduction of ecological impacts. By meeting MSC’s rigorous criteria, the fishery will contribute to both the long-term abundance of the shrimp population and the protection of the surrounding marine ecosystem.
A boost for economy and global trade
The certification is expected to enhance access to key international markets, with demand for certified sustainable seafood growing in the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
Argentine red shrimp, known for its high quality and vibrant colour, has been one of the fastest-growing seafood products globally over the past 15 years. With an annual catch of approximately 72,000 metric tons, the fishery plays a crucial role in Argentina’s economy, supporting jobs in coastal communities and strengthening local industry.
“This achievement is the result of years of hard teamwork and dedication to sustainability,” said Federico Angeleri, representative of the fishery’s client group.
“We take great pride in contributing to the region’s economic development while maintaining the highest environmental standards. MSC certification opens new opportunities in the market, allowing us to offer a certified, high-quality shrimp product.”
Commitment to sustainable practices
The fishery operates seasonally between October-November and March-April to align with the species’ natural life cycle. The certification applies to the inshore component of the fishery, where small and medium-sized chilling vessels operate along the coast of Chubut province in Argentina’s Patagonia region.
MSC Latin America Program Director, Cristian Vallejos, praised the achievement, stating, “This certification marks a significant step forward for sustainable fishing in Argentina. It demonstrates the industry’s commitment to environmental responsibility and serves as an inspiration for other fisheries in the region to pursue similar improvements.”
Looking ahead: Offshore certification in progress
With the inshore portion now certified, the fishery is nearing full MSC program engagement. The offshore component, operating in federal waters with an annual catch of approximately 140,000 metric tons, is currently under assessment. Certification for this segment is expected by the end of 2025, further solidifying Argentina’s leadership in sustainable seafood production.
The certification process has been led by a group of traditional fishing companies, including Achernar, Agropez, Cabo Virgenes, Consermar, Food Partners Patagonia, Greciamar, Iberconsa de Argentina, La Escalerona, and Pesquera Veraz, with support from Cedepesca, a Latin American fishery NGO.
As global demand for certified sustainable seafood rises, Argentina’s red shrimp fishery is positioning itself as a leader in responsible fishing, benefiting both the environment and the economy.
Images courtesy of the fishery.
