Two squid fishing vessels unloading in Puerto Madryn, Chubut Province. Photo: courtesy of APPM

Argentina Closes Illex Squid Season in One Week Following Record Start

ARGENTINA
Tuesday, June 03, 2025, 00:10 (GMT + 9)

Measure aims to protect resource sustainability after abrupt decline in abundance, despite exceptional performance.

BUENOS AIRES – Argentina's Illex argentinus squid fishing season, which was shaping up to be one of the most successful in recent years with projections of reaching a historic record of 180,000 tonnes, will close prematurely. The Federal Fisheries Council (CFP) unanimously resolved to end fishing activity from June 10, 2025, at 0:00 hours, adhering to the recommendation of the National Institute of Fisheries Research and Development (INIDEP).

The decision, though surprising given the notable initial performance, is based on a technical analysis (INIDEP ITO N° 023/2025) that revealed a rapid and marked decline in the abundance of the North Patagonian stock of squid (SBNP) starting from week 17. The resource's escape rate, essential for its reproduction, fell below the critical biological threshold by week 21, leading INIDEP to recommend the closure "not to compromise the biological and fishing sustainability of the squid."

By early March, the Argentine jigger fleet, comprising 73 vessels, had completed 160 trips and caught a total of 69,028 tonnes, with an average yield of 24 tonnes per day. Trawler vessels had added another 10,235 tonnes to the total catch. Ports like Puerto Madryn witnessed exceptional arrivals, such as the jigger Hai de Li 701 with over 650 tonnes. In total, 162,759 tonnes have been landing, and if the catch rate had continued, the season was estimated to reach a historic record of 180,000 tonnes.

Photo: courtesy APPM

The season's success was also reflected in the export market. The average export price stood at USD 2,659 per tonne, representing a 9% increase compared to the same period last year. Notably, 92% of these exports were directed to China, which saw a 205% surge in demand.

Argentina's Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), particularly around "mile 201," is also a convergence point for foreign fleets. Over 300 Chinese jigger vessels, along with fleets from South Korea, Taiwan, and Spain, operate in adjacent international waters, also targeting Illex argentinus.

Foreign fleet operating on the edge of Argentina's 200-mile EEZ -->

The CFP's measure underscores Argentina's commitment to adaptive management and the conservation of its fisheries resources, balancing economic exploitation with the protection of long-term sustainability.

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