A close look at small-scale fisheries value chain

The fourth episode highlights the work of TBTI members who are looking at the small-scale fisheries value chain. José J. Pascual-Fernández, University of La Laguna, SpainMd Ruyel Miah, University of Waterloo, CanadaSynopsisResearch about post-harvest activities has not received a lot of attention, especially when compared to pre-harvest and harvest. This has recently changed, however, with the increased volume in fish trade and the enhanced value chain. From the small-scale fisheries perspective, the Voluntary Guidelines on Securing Sustainable Small-Scale Fisheries (FAO 2015) have a section about value chain and trade, emphasizing the need to recognize the role of post-harvest actors in small-scale fisheries, women in particular. Countries are urged to enable participation of value chain actors in decision-making process, and to invest in appropriate infrastructure and capacity development to support the production of high-quality fish and fishery products. Further, in line with the Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 14, Target 14b, efforts should be made to help secure access to resources and markets for small-scale fisheries. This is especially pertinent for products from small-scale fisheries, which are already part of, or may become new entries in, regional and international markets. A close look at small-scale fisheries value chain is imperative given the current discussion about the guidance on social responsibility in the fisheries and aquaculture value chains, which the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations is working on, as part of the COFI Sub-Committee on Fish Trade.In this episode, we will hear about a neat initiative led by Jose Pascual, University of La Laguna, Spain, one of TBTI founding members, in enhancing small-scale fisheries value chain. He introduced locally caught tuna from Canary Islands into a school lunch program, creating thus alternative demands and markets for small-scale fisheries. The program also helps kids learn more about and fisheries and strengthen their connection to the coastal communities.We'll also hear from Ruyel Miah, who has recently graduated with a PhD from University of Waterloo, Canada, adds another layer of complexity, pointing out through his research the risk and vulnerability of small-scale fisheries, especially women, in disaster prone areas. His work in Bangladesh and India reveals how vulnerable small-scale fisheries along the value chain are when faced with cyclone and other threats. In these instances, habitats and fish may be protected – but the real question is what kind of protection do small-scale fisheries get.