Introduction

The fisheries sector is important for food security, jobs and for the livelihoods of millions of people, especially in developing countries. Fisheries are an important provider of animal protein, macronutrients and micronutrients, such as Omega 3 fatty acids and iodine, that are difficult to find in other foods. Global capture fisheries generate 51 per cent of all fish and seafood produced today (versus 49 per cent from aquaculture) (FAO, 2022a). Developing countries depended on fish for more than 11.7 per cent of consumed animal protein in 2017, while in some SIDS this figure exceeded 50 per cent (UNCTAD, 2021a). The fisheries sector is also an important source of jobs and livelihoods, with more than 40 million people working in fisheries and aquaculture in 2020, about 21 per cent of whom are women (FAO, 2022a). By way of comparison, there are 20 times more fishers than seafarers worldwide.

Sustainable Development Goals:

Affordable and Clean Energy

Climate Action

Life Below Water