2025 Fishing Season for Frozen-at-Sea Argentine Red Shrimp

In October 2025, the fishing season for frozen-at-sea (FAS) Argentine red shrimp concluded officially (ended on October 4th), with the FAS production reaching approximately 40,000 tonnes. As of early October, the cumulative production of all Argentine red shrimp categories stood at 138,000 tonnes, representing a year-on-year decline of over 20% compared to 174,000 tonnes in the same period last year. All fishing vessels were required to return to ports by October 10th.

Conarpesa, a leading exporter, saw its production halved—this season’s output was only 5,500 tonnes (vs. around 10,000 tonnes in previous years), and most enterprises in the industry failed to meet production expectations. The lackluster production stemmed from three key factors: First, the delayed salary negotiations between the Union of Maritime and River Workers (SOMU) and shipowners from March to July resulted in the loss of the optimal fishing window. Second, adverse weather in recent weeks reduced operational hours. Third, the Argentine Federal Fisheries Service suspended the fishing season to protect the ecosystem, citing a high proportion of juvenile hake in protected areas within the red shrimp fishing grounds.

The export price rose from €4-€5 per kg to over €7 per kg. However, the shortened fishing season pushed up fixed costs—Conarpesa stated that it needed to sell at €10 per kg to make a profit, and the current price still put pressure on enterprises. The industry expects that labor agreements for the upcoming land-frozen fishing season will be reached in advance to avoid a repeat of this season’s predicament.