Connecting Bahrain to a Global Market

Bahraini-based Shell Fisheries is contributing to improving food security in the region, while exporting a wide range of products to the Middle East, Asia and North America.

NAZLEY JORDAN

In 2001, Shell Fisheries launched a processing plant located in the industrial area of Salmabad. Over the last two decades the company has expanded its operations and invested in modern processing technology. With three specialised factories sourcing products from local and international markets, the business currently has a total plant capacity of 4500 MT per annum.

Sami Al Saif, President of Shell Fisheries, says the company strives to operate as sustainably as possible.

There is a big market for frozen fish such as hamour, salmon and shrimp in the Middle East and North Africa markets so these products are imported from international sources, processed and sold in Bahrain, the GCC, Iraq, Jordan and Egypt. Shell Fisheries also sells a range of value added products including breaded shrimp, fish nuggets, cooked shrimps and fish burgers in the same markets.

The regional market for certain frozen crustaceans such as crab is relatively small so the bulk of these products are exported to South Korea, Japan, Malaysia and the USA.

Shell Fisheries has also found a market for trash fish, which refers to non-targeted fish that are often considered to be of low commercial value and are typically discarded by fishermen.

However, in recent years there has been a growing interest in utilising trash fish as a source of food and income, particularly in developing countries where food security is a concern. Shell Fisheries processes and exports a range of trash fish including catfish, queenfish, ribbonfish and jellyfish to markets across Asia.

Sustainability

The fishing sector plays a vital role in ensuring food security in Bahrain as it provides a significant portion of the country’s seafood. However, the industry has undergone significant changes in recent years due to pollution, land reclamation and climate change. Furthermore, the waters surrounding Bahrain have been heavily exploitedfor decades, and as a result, many fish species have become depleted.

Al Saif says Shell Fisheries is committed to ensuring that all of its products are sustainably sourced. “Over the last 20 years we have lobbied for the government to implement various measures to regulate the sector.”

To protect the oceans and ensure the sustainability of the fishing sector, the government of Bahrain has passed several regulations. One of the most important regulations is the Marine Resources Law, which was first enacted in 1981 and has been amended several times. This law regulates the fishing industry and sets limits on the size and quantity of fish that can be caught. It also established a closed season during which fishing is prohibited and stipulated that fishermen need to obtain licenses before they can operate. Those who violate the regulations will face penalties.

The government has also established marine protected areas (MPAs) to conserve the marine environment. This describes areas of the ocean where human activities are restricted or prohibited to protect marine biodiversity and ecosystems.

“The passing of these laws have resulted in a more regulated industry,” says Al Saif. “It has removed unhealthy competitors who used to cut corners from the sector. Furthermore, food safety measures have been improved across the board which is a very good thing.”

Looking ahead, Al Saif says Shell Fisheries plans to open a new processing plant in Sitra by early 2023. “This will enable us to add new production lines and expand our capacity. We also intend to expand our range of breaded and cooked products. This will allow us to continue generating export revenue, while supporting local fishermen.” www.shell-fisheries.com

+973 1778 6110 info@shell-fisheries.com