August 3, 2007

 

Israel seeks to compete with Asia in EU fish market
 

 

It may seem surprising that a nation whose land area is mainly desert would think of engaging in aquaculture and making it a viable industry.

 

But what is even more amazing is that in the past five years, the nation in question - Israel, has become one of the leading exporters of fish to the European Union, a development that has boosted its economy.

 

Where aquaculture is concerned, Israel is now in a league dominated by Asian countries. It is also the only Middle Eastern nation to export the product.

 

The high quality of Israel's fish exports are a credit to the methods used in Israeli aquaculture, the country's Agriculture Ministry said.

 

Aquaculture in Israel was started in the 1970s despite a lack of natural water sources such as lakes and rivers. Scientists discover the industry may be possible when they discovered that the brackish waters flowing from drilled desert aquifiers may be able to support fish.

 

Fish species developed include carp, catfish, tilapia, shrimp and others. By 1993, it is already exporting US$9.3 million worth of fishery products a year ( both from the wild and aquaculture), although imports were ten times as much.

 

Israel's fishes are bred using indoor fresh water facilities where marine biologists monitor and study their progress. The quality of the fish would rival exports from Asian countries, a spokesman said. Hoping to stay one step ahead of its competitors, the country also has research institutes and companies studying ways to improve aquaculture.

 

Aquaculture methods in Israel are now so advanced other nations with deserts, including China and Australia, along with poorer desert nations are hoping to learn something from Israel.

 

There are currently four major fish exporters in the country, Agrexco, Magnooy, HaZorea, and Sundag, each with its own EU client base and earns more than a combined total of US$12 million in profits yearly.

 

Although fish from Israel cost 10 percent more than fish from Asia, the higher prices did not affect its demand in the EU due to its higher quality.

 

Experts believe Israel is ready to increase the number of its fish exporters and boost this fledgling sector.

 

Even though there is competition from Asia, Israel's proximity to the EU means it is able to deliver fresher fish within a shorter time. Lower transport costs would also help the industry grow, experts said.

 

Experts also say there is a strong possibility that Israel could monopolise the Middle Eastern fishing industry, or at least be a major player.