Integrated Coastal Management (ICM), Andhra Pradesh, India
South Indian Federation of Fishermen Societies (SIFFS), Trivandrum, India

Problem:

The growing impact of international legislation is causing increasing concern particularly with regard to developing countries fisheries and impact on the poor (e.g. SPS standards, TBT and fisheries partnership agreements). Governments, especially policy makers, as well as other sector stakeholders are increasingly aware of the need to formulate policies, often of a pro-poor and post harvest nature, to prevent, mitigate or enhance the impact of existing and proposed legislation.  The research aimed to develop policy recommendations, which relate not only to India but to many countries fisheries.

Achievements:

Using a multi-disciplinary approach the research:

• improved the information base on the link between globalisation, post-harvest fisheries, and livelihoods of poor communities in India;
• produced a methodology to assess impact of legislation on the poor in the post-harvest fishery sector; and,
• developed policy recommendations related to poor people’s livelihoods, poverty eradication and access to global seafood markets.

Some of the key findings included:

• Legislation enforced by importing countries and Indian authorities has lead to industry downsizing and increased stakeholder vulnerability.
• Major changes in the control systems and infrastructure will be required throughout the supply chain entailing implementation of control measures at all stages of the production chain rather than only at the “processing” stage” as at present. Further impacts are likely when the anticipated changes and strengthening of legislation occurs.
• The need to enhance the ability of the poor to upgrade their systems and provide incentives for this process.
• Poor information flows and lack of information are hampering the development and involvement of the poor in the industry.
• The need to provide infrastructure and communication systems to allow the poor to adjust to more stringent export regulations.
• The need to develop alternative livelihood options for those marginalised by the changed legislation.
• Policies and their implementation need to be more context-specific.
• To minimise industry losses and enhance poor people’s access to global seafood markets, there must be community participation both in resource management and in quality assurance systems.