The Ministry of Production announced on Apr. 24 that it has increased the total allowable catch for bonito (Sarda chiliensis chiliensis) to 80,655 tons for the year 2026, up from a previous limit of 68,367 tons. The extension is effective until December and was formalized through Ministerial Resolution No. 000102-2026-PRODUCE.
This decision aims to balance sustainability with supply and opportunities for artisanal fishing communities across Peru. Minister César Quispe Luján said, “We are ensuring that bonito remains an accessible food source for Peruvian families, but also a profitable and orderly activity for thousands of artisanal fishermen in the country.”
Of the total quota authorized, 14,193 tons may be caught between April 25 and December 31 under a new distribution: larger purse seine vessels (over 20 m³ up to 32.6 m³) are allocated 6,451 tons; medium-sized vessels (10 m³ to less than or equal to 20 m³) receive 2,713 tons; smaller vessels (less than or equal to10 m³) get 3,502 tons; and artisanal curtain net boats plus other passive gear crafts have a share of1,527 tons. Fishing schedules will be staggered by vessel type each month—passive gear boats from days1–12; small purse seiners from days13–30/31; larger seiners from day20 until month’s end—with restrictions on monthly departures depending on vessel size.
To reinforce conservation efforts, PRODUCE requires each boat use only one type of fishing gear per year without switching between active or passive methods. Transshipment is prohibited and technical guidelines mandate using ice at a minimum ratio of two parts ice per part fish during capture and transport. Passive gear boats can land no more than2.5 tons per trip with an allowance up to0.3 additional ton if needed.
Quispe Luján said,“This new scheme allows more efficient social and economic use of available quotas but with clear rules and strict supervision to protect resource sustainability.” During upcoming reproductive closures all extraction will be banned in line with technical recommendations as stock levels remain healthy according to IMARPE.
The Ministry of Production serves producers, entrepreneurs and communities throughout Peru according to its official website. It promotes social inclusion initiatives aimed at improving living conditions among fishermen nationwide according to the official website. The ministry issues regulations designed to strengthen sustainable development in fishing as well as aquaculture sectors according to its official website. It operates multiple facilities including central headquarters in San Isidro,Lima,and business development centers according to its official site.
As governing body responsible for national policies related tofishing,aquaculture,micro-and small-to-medium enterprises,and industry,the ministry works toward sustainable growth while supporting small businesses according tothe official site. Technical assistanceand training services help enhance productivityfor producersandfishermenacrossPeru.The organizationhas received international recognitionfromthe OECDfor itssustainable fisheries workas reported byitswebsite.
