November 16, 2009

Brazil, Dutch firm collaborates to develop shrimp farming in Cabo Verde

Within the framework of an agreement signed by two private sector companies, Brazilian technology and Dutch resources will be applied in Cabo Verde to develop shrimp farming.

The Universo Pescados executive and fishing engineer Fabiano Lima said the combination from both companies will help install a shrimp hatchery in the Island of San Vicente. The project will demand an investment of around EUR1.35 million.

Of that total, 50 percent will come from the programme Private Sector Investment (PSI/EVD), a Dutch government fund that allocates resources for projects in emergening countries.

The rest of the money EUR675,000, will be financed by the Brazilian company Universo Pescados, with headquarters in Ceara, and the Sucla company, of Cabo Verde.

Lima said construction of the shrimp hatchery will begin in January 2010 and will be operating by May. The shrimp farm will occupy an area of 20 hectares and will have the capacity to produce 80 tonnes annually.

Once the first phase of maturation of the project passes, production will tend to increase up to 140 annual tonnes, with the surplus destined to export.

The Universo Pescados company, established in Sao Gonçalo do Amarante, Brazil, dedicates import and export of foods for fish-farming and shrimp production.

Lima added that the objective of the joint venture with Sucla is also to commercialise fish and develop aquaculture in Cabo Verde.

Universo Pescados also participates in another mixed company in Green Cabo Verde, to raise tilapia that will serve as bait for tuna fishing.

US$1 = EUR0.668 (Nov 16)