Ecuador shrimp sector faces new regulations

New government regulations have been applied to Ecuador's aquaculture industry.

In October 2009, the government initiated a review of the requirements demanded of the sector. The main goal was to ensure that the industry not only complies with the regulations, but also that deed-holders of concessions accept the requirements in compliance of labour, environmental, tributary and sanitary exigencies, which before were not crucial in maintaining or renewing an aquaculture concession.

The executive president of the National Aquaculture Chamber (CNA) issued a letter to the Ecuadorian aquaculture sector in which it warns of the possibility that the new governmental regulations endanger the survival of shrimp producers.

On February 26, the decree amending the regulation that established new parameters for aquaculture-shrimp farming concessions had been signed. The decree:

• Included shrimp farming concessions, as well as shrimp farming activity on high lands or private property;
  
  
• Establishes a productive extension limit for both cases of 50 hectares for individuals and 250 hectares per company or legal person;
  
  
• In the case of private property or high lands, if the companies or people exceed the hectare limits, authorisation to carry out the activity will be revoked;

Shrimp farmers are expected to be compliant to the new rules by March 31.