The Ecuadorian shrimp, close to reaching Brazil

The Ecuadorian shrimp could return to the Brazilian market after 18 years, thanks to a shared management among the undersecretary of aquaculture, the National Fisheries Institute (INP) and representatives of the private shrimp sector.

The Brazilian market has been closed for the Ecuadorian shrimp since 1999 because of phytosanitary barriers due to the contagion of the white spot that affected about 70% of the national production.

Companies interested in exporting it were identified and will receive advice to meet the requirements of Brazil’s Ministry of Agriculture, Livestock, and Supply, said Jorge Romero, undersecretary of Aquaculture.

According to figures from the National Chamber of Aquaculture, Brazil has an annual production of 100 thousand tons and is estimated to have a deficit of 30%.

Romero said that Brazil has already recognized several health issues in Ecuador, through inspections last year. And Brazilian businesspeople visited the country in January to identify suppliers.