Courtesy of SeafoodNews.com:
In a preliminary report, SADER estimated Mexico’s shrimp production at 243,400t, valued at MX$23.8 billion (US$1.4 billion), by the end of 2023. This substantial output guarantees a consistent supply of this staple to meet domestic demand during the ongoing Lenten season.
Locally produced shrimp, known for its affordability, quality, and nutritional value, is available at central markets, supermarkets, fish markets, and various outlets nationwide, reported SADER. The 2023 shrimp production has positioned Mexico as the second-largest producer of both captured and cultivated shrimp in Latin America and the seventh globally, according to preliminary data from the fisheries and aquaculture sector.
From 2019 to the end of last year, shrimp production increased by 4.9%, showcasing the versatility of this caridean family crustacean, capable of thriving in both fresh and saltwater environments. Hailing from the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, and the Pacific, as well as from lagoons or aquaculture centers, Mexican shrimp stands out as one of the most sought-after aquatic products, renowned for its taste, gastronomic versatility, and nutritional properties.
With an annual per capita consumption of 2kg, shrimp holds a 12.9% share in national fishery production. Peak volume is attained in the last quarter of the year, coinciding with increased exports. Thanks to the efforts of shrimp producers and the commercial sector, the availability of shrimp is maintained throughout the year.
National figures from the fisheries and aquaculture subsector reveal that offshore and shoreline shrimp capture exceeded 50,800t, valued at MX$4 billion. Of this, offshore capture accounted for 20,600t, with a value exceeding MX$1.8 billion, while shoreline capture reached 30,200t, generating revenues of MX$2.2 billion. In terms of aquaculture production, harvest recorded 192,600t, with an economic value exceeding MX$19.8 billion.
SADER pointed out that Sinaloa topped the list of shrimp-producing states, contributing 22,700t, with 8,400t from offshore capture and over 14,300t from smaller vessels. Sonora followed, with 11,200t, divided into 4,700t from offshore capture and 6,500t from smaller vessels. Tamaulipas came third, producing 8,200t, with 5,300t from offshore and 2,900t from smaller vessels.
Other notable contributors included Campeche with 1,840t, Veracruz with 1,100t, Oaxaca with 770t, Nayarit with 1,948t, Chiapas with 712t, Baja California with 914t, and Baja California Sur with 884t, each playing a significant role in Mexico’s thriving shrimp industry.