Workshop on market access for small-scale fisheries and the Belt and Road Initiative: Challenges and prospects

This event is by 'invitation only'

Introduction

Small-scale fisheries (SSF)  account for at least 40 percent of the global catch (64 percent in Asia) and employ an estimated 60.2 million people, equivalent to 90 percent of the total workforce in the fisheries sector. SSF is also significant for aquaculture production in Asia, where small-scale farming contributes significantly to the sector in many countries. Considering its big share in the fisheries and aquaculture sector, and the constant challenges involving the production and trade of fisheries and aquaculture products, it is imperative to enhance the livelihoods of SSF and their contribution to food security to ensure fair distribution of benefits and improved market access.

The workshop on “Market Access for Small-Scale Fisheries and the Belt and Road Initiative: Challenges and Prospects” will unite representatives from Asian countries with a significant SSF sector, major importing countries, the industry, and non-government organizations for experience sharing and open discussions. The workshop will delve into the key challenges SSF face in accessing regional and international markets and look forward to potential solutions to enhance market access, mainly through coordinated strategies like the Chinese Belt and Road Initiative.

The discussions will comprehensively analyze the opportunities, advantages, good practices, and primary challenges of SSF accessing regional or international markets. The workshop report, to be produced by FAO GLOBEFISH, will include the recommendations, solutions, and challenges discussed.

Co-organizers

The FAO GLOBEFISH project, one of the workshop's organizers, has fostered transparency, market access, and traceability within the fisheries and aquaculture sector since 1984. It has been instrumental in facilitating the exchange of information among the industry, governments, academia, and stakeholders on a global scale, adapting to constantly evolving contexts and needs.

UNCTAD, an intergovernmental organization within the United Nations Secretariat, was established in 1964. Its headquarters are located in Geneva, Switzerland, and it is responsible for formulating policies that promote developing countries' interests in world trade. These policies pertain to all aspects of development, including trade, aid, transport, finance, and technology.

Shanghai Ocean University is among the most renowned marine universities in China. The subject of fisheries and aquaculture has been ranked highest in the Ministry of Education of China review among the sectorial universities. The university serves as a prominent think tank for the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs of China, focusing on compliance, international negotiation, distant water fisheries, law enforcement training, and consultancy. SHOU has maintained a sustained and productive collaboration with FAO GLOBEFISH since 2015.