Who we are / Info
Ministry of Fisheries. The fishing industry is recognized as the national economy’s secondary driver of growth, capable of enhancing the country’s economic value and creating employment opportunities. Possessing a broad continental shelf teeming with a rich diversity of marine resources, this area stands as one of the maritime jewels of West Africa, attracting a myriad of foreign fishers, from traditional craftspeople to large-scale operations.
The fishery richness stems from several key factors: (i) An EEZ that covers an expanse of 108,000 km² coupled with a broad, shallow continental shelf area of 53,000 km²; (ii) expansive maritime areas fringed with mangrove forests; (iii) a multitude of estuaries shielded by a natural barrier of islands; (iv) the presence of coastal upwelling; (v) significant river outflows, particularly pronounced in the rainy season. These distinct environmental traits foster a rich diversity of fishery resources, whether coastal or deep-sea, along the country’s 274 km of shoreline.
Furthermore, this industry is pivotal within the nation’s broader development strategy, offering substantial non-tax revenue and foreign exchange benefits. It plays a crucial role in poverty alleviation and securing the nutritional and food stability of the population.
Our products / services (list)
a) Promote the sustainable development of the fisheries sector, by adopting measures that allow for the preservation, management, and rational and balanced exploitation of fishery resources;
b) Develop, within its areas of competence, cooperation with regional and international specialized institutions and bodies and consolidate existing relationships;
c) Frame and promote economic activities related to the production, transformation, and marketing of fishery products;
d) Provide, as the competent authority, hygienic-sanitary inspection services and quality control of fishery products and their derivatives;
e) Promote and coordinate actions of research and scientific knowledge of the waters under the sovereignty and jurisdiction of Guinea-Bissau, with the aim of providing an adequate basis for the management of marine resources;
f) Grant fishing authorizations in the waters under the sovereignty and jurisdiction of Guinea-Bissau;
g) Exercise, in collaboration with other competent bodies, the supervision and controlled activities of fishing vessels;
h) Represent the Government, domestically and internationally, in matters resulting from its duties.
