U.S.-based seafood importer NETUNO has announced the launch of a Fishery Improvement Project (FIP) aimed at enhancing the sustainability and long-term viability of squid fisheries along India’s West Coast.
In collaboration with Neptune, IndoFisheries, and Winsor World, the project will focus on trawl fisheries targeting Indian squid (Uroteuthis duvaucelii), spanning from Gujarat to Kerala. The initiative seeks to tackle key challenges related to stock variability and sustainable practices across these critical fisheries.
A recent blog post by NETUNO highlighted the project’s dual objectives: improving biological sustainability while also addressing social responsibility issues—particularly labor abuses that have plagued global squid supply chains.
“We identified encouraging data during our pre-assessment,” said André Brugger, NETUNO’s Sustainability and Compliance Manager. “Squid stocks off India’s southwest coast were found to be sustainable, while stocks in the northwest are showing signs of recovery. By refining data collection methods and establishing more accurate stock assessments, we aim to ensure these fisheries operate responsibly for the long term.”
The project will extend through 2027, aligning with NETUNO’s commitment to advancing sustainable seafood practices worldwide.