In a significant move to bolster the aquaculture industry, Israel’s Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security has announced a support package worth approximately 10 million Shekels (USD 2.65 million). This funding aims to encourage investments in the breeding, raising, and harvesting of fish, shellfish, and aquatic plants, aligning with the government’s efforts to reduce the cost of living by lowering tariffs on various fish types.
The financial support will be allocated proportionally to the marketed ton of fish, with 5,500 Shekels (USD 1,462) provided per ton. This initiative targets breeders of fish such as bream, barramundi, bass, sea bass, mullet, and others, aiming to provide them with the necessary resources to thrive amidst changing economic conditions.
Oren Lavi, Director General of the Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security, emphasized the strategic importance of this initiative, stating, “The management of the ministry sees great importance in promoting protein solutions for the population, including the development of food from water. These days, we are working to remove many barriers to the activity of this branch of all its types, while building a strategic plan, as part of the formulation of Israel’s food security plan.”
The Ministry highlighted the growing significance of the aquaculture industry, noting that fish production in artificial ponds and fish cages in the sea now surpasses traditional fishing methods. This shift has turned aquaculture into a major industry capable of meeting the rising demand for seafood.
By investing in aquaculture, the Ministry aims to ensure a steady supply of protein-rich food from the sea, thereby enhancing Israel’s food security. This strategic support is expected to strengthen the industry, making it more resilient and capable of contributing significantly to the nation’s agricultural output.
This initiative reflects Israel’s commitment to sustainable agricultural practices and the development of innovative solutions to meet future food demands.
