ECONOMIC PERFORMANCE OF MARINE COMMERCIAL FISHERIES IN THE CENTRAL ALGERIA

Maouel D, Bedrani S and Aoudjit C

Abstract

On a global scale, the almost total over-exploitation of fishing resources has weakened the economic situation of fishing fleets, which becomes problematic. In Algeria, small pelagic fish, notably sardine, mainly represent fish stocks. The economic performance study of sardine fishing units of the central coast of the country reveals a downward trend since 2007 of the profits made by this fleet. Revenues recorded from this date, are degrading; Even so, the turnover achieved still covers the operating and non-operating expenses borne by all the ship-owners in the study sector. The average overall rate of return of the various boats is getting closer and lower every year. The highest level is found in the lowest engine, and ranks the latter as the most performing. While, in terms of capital productivity, the high-purse seiners are the least productive. As for staff productivity, it is steadily declining. Thus, taking advantage of the new strategy of encouraging fishing, advocated by those responsible for public action, it seems more appropriate to move towards the substitution of vessels with strong motorization by smaller boats.

Keywords: Economic Performances; Mediterranean Sea; Algeria; Sardine Fishery