Small-scale shrimp producers. (Photo: Stock File/FIS)
BRAZIL
Tuesday, August 19, 2014, 23:50 (GMT + 9)
After eight years’ effort, Sergipe has become the first state in the northeastern Brazil to regulate the shrimp breeder’s activity.
"From this regularization, we are counting on the support of the Brazilian Service of Support for Micro and Small Enterprises (SEBRAE) to help us improve our productivity and care of the environment," Alexsandro Monteiro dos Santos, president of Sergipe Association of Shrimp Breeders, pointed out.
The leader referred to this development as "a historic achievement." He explained that he will provide access to credit in public banks to improve the structure of the sector and enable farmers to have pension benefits.
According to the State Administration of Environment (ADEMA), smallholders comprise about 10,000 families providing 95 per cent of crustacean production in Segirpe -- the fourth largest producer state in the country -- with about 600 tonnes per year, Globo reported.
Family production is developed in 13 municipalities in Sergipe, in areas having less than 10 hectares where about 10 specimens are produced per square metre.
The large scale production manages to breed up to 100 crustaceans in the same space.
Wanderlê Correia, ADEMA president, said several aspects will be assessed to try to make an inventory of rural properties -- such as the Environmental Preservation Area (EPA) -- and the legal reserves in the state.
"This is a win-win conquest. Producers, who can improve production, benefit and the environment is favoured, as it preserves and ensures business continuity," Correia added, according to ASN.