At the opening session of the Zuwara Maritime Expo 2022 yesterday (5 to 6 October at Zuwara Port) there was a call for a unified ‘‘Blue Economy’’ policy by the Libyan authorities and a lifting of the fish export ban.
The opening session was attended by Adel Sultan, Minister for Marine Wealth, the Deputy Minister of Economy and Trade in charge of Free Zones, the Western Region Chamber of Commerce, a representative for the Mayor of Zuwara. Minister Sultan officially opened the newly completed Zuwara Port administration building as part of the day’s ceremony.
Fish exports to help diversify Libya’s economy
It was pointed out at the event that Egypt and Algeria exported approximately Euro 300 per annum from fish exports, which helped diversify their economies’ revenues and created employment.
Libya was prevented from gaining this high value return because the current fish export ban has prevented direct exports. It has also encouraged the smuggling of fish to neighbouring countries who in turn benefit by exporting Libyan fish to Europe for a higher return.
The fish export ban is wrong
The current fish export ban is wrong and misplaced, reactionary, and draconian; it was pointed out. It was caused by a short-term spike in fish prices and should have been lifted a long time ago – for the greater good of the country’s economy.
For example, it was pointed out that Zuwara used to export fish to Europe decades ago.
A need for unified policy and action
It was also pointed out that the various ministries such as the Marine Wealth Ministry Libyan Ports Authority and Technical/Vocational Training Department were not acting in unison. This was negatively affecting the fisheries and Blue Economy sector.
Call for a unified committee
There was a call for the creation of a unified committee consisting of all stakeholders that are relevant to the sector, such as the Economy Ministry, Marine Wealth Ministry, the Export Promotion Centre, etc, to look at developing Libya’s Blue Economy sector.
The scientific conference
Running alongside the exhibition will be a scientific conference consisting of a series of presentations on the developing Libya’s Blue Economy, fisheries, and environmental protection.
Tunis Air/Express ready to start flights to Zuwara from Tunis Carthage airport (libyaherald.com)
Airports Authority installs new security equipment at Zuwara airport (libyaherald.com)
Zuwara Municipality discusses establishment of free zone (libyaherald.com)
Tripoli Chamber delegation visits Indonesia to enhance fisheries cooperation (libyaherald.com)
