Sénégal boosts local fish supply with four new demersal fishing licenses

The Sénégal government has granted four new coastal demersal fishing licenses to a local operator, marking a strategic move to bolster the national seafood supply and reinforce the country’s food sovereignty.

In an official statement released on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the Ministry of Fisheries and Maritime Economy confirmed that the licenses—targeting fish and cephalopod species—were awarded following rigorous scientific assessments carried out by the Dakar-Thiaroye Oceanographic Research Centre.

The decision aligns with the outcomes of the Consultative Commission for Fishing License Allocation, which convened on May 12, 2026 in accordance with national fishing regulations. Authorities emphasized that the process was conducted with full transparency and strict adherence to scientific data, ensuring sustainable resource management.

This initiative follows the Council of Ministers meeting held on November 26, 2025, which prioritized enhancing the availability of seafood in domestic markets. After consultations with multiple fishing operators in late 2025, only one company met the criteria and committed to the public-private partnership framework, pledging to supply its entire catch exclusively to the Sénégal market.

The licensed operator has also committed to investing in cold storage and distribution infrastructure, particularly in remote regions, to improve access to quality seafood at affordable prices nationwide. This move addresses concerns over rising fish prices and dwindling marine resources while reinforcing Sénégal’s food security.

According to the ministry, the scientific evaluation confirmed that limited, gradual, and strictly regulated access to coastal demersal fisheries could be sustained without compromising long-term stock health. The government reaffirmed its commitment to balancing economic development with sustainable fisheries management, ensuring both food availability and resource conservation for future generations.