Fish Earnings Fall
10 June 2008UGANDA - Uganda's earnings from fish exports last year dropped by $19.4 million to $117.3 million from the previous year.
&Dick Nyeko, the commissioner for fisheries, said increased cost of production and a drop in fish numbers, which has forced some processors to close, was to blame for the fall, according to All Africa.
quot;The burgeoning demand for fish, locally and internationally, has led to scarcity of fish due to over-exploitation of the lakes. The demand, coupled with increased cost of production, a strong shilling and high freight charges have led to the closure of five exporting firms," Mr Nyeko said.
The companies that have been forced to close are Gomba Fishing, Uganda Marine Products, Masese Fish Parkers, Ngege Limited and Begumisa Enterprises.
All Africa reports that the free market economy is undermining competitiveness of local exporters because since most of our lakes are shared, fish is sold to neighbouring countries that offer better prices.
TheFishSite News Desk
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