Surging Bluefin Catches In Libya Soften Prices

Libyan fishers are reporting one of the strongest bluefin seasons in years, buoyed by abundant catches of the high-value species known locally as ‘blue gold.’ Bluefin is a staple food for locals, and affordable prices have boosted consumer demand, enabling fishers to move catches quickly through local markets, according to new site Xinhua. Currently, the fish is sold at LYD 15 (USD 2.34) for a kilo, making it an economical option for many households compared with other meat products. As part of efforts to regulate the domestic market, Libya’s Ministry of Economy and Trade has temporarily banned all fish and seafood exports, since April, to stabilize prices and ensure adequate supplies for local consumers.

Bluefins usually migrate from the Atlantic Ocean to the Mediterranean through the Strait of Gribaltar around April and May. Libya, located on the southern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, usually has ample catches during this time of the year. Bluefin season is a key economic driver for the nation’s coastal communities, supporting fisheries, trade, and employment as the country continues its recovery from years of instability.