Title: A mixed method analysis of the industrial shrimp fishery in El Salvador

The industrial shrimp fishery is one of the most important in El Salvador. However, key management requirements are absent in the national fisheries system. By describing the status of the industrial shrimp fishery and its management system, and analyzing the value chain, this paper aims to identify improvements needed for more efficient resource management and to explore the industry´s potential to access better markets.

A mixed-method research approach was used, collecting qualitative data from interviews with key participants in the authority and the industry, and performing a literature review on management standards and guidelines for comparison. Secondary quantitative data from different sources was used to integrate the information in the interpretation of the results to support the findings.

The results show that there is no specific management plan for the shrimp fishery and through the analysis of the value chain many issues arise: The lack of a scale system for the catches; an outdated data collection system; deficiencies in monitoring, control, and surveillance activities (especially for the landings and transshipments), and the lack of dedicated monitoring programs for the stock assessment are among the most important. In regards of the exports, it is concluded that the lack of a management plan, a traceability system, and a stock assessment program - requirements that are needed to fulfil the standards of the U.S and EU markets - are the main impediment to export the shrimp and access a better market.

From a wider perspective of the identified issues, this study emphasizes the need of the development of a fisheries management plan with co-management as a strategy; adjustments on current instruments and improvements in data collection methods and traceability that can open the possibility of the industry to access better markets in the future.