Insights into the Economic Aspects of Egyptian Fisheries and their Impact on Fishermen Communities

This review highlights the economic aspects of Egyptian fisheries and their impact on fishing communities. Local fish production increased by about 46% between 2012 and 2021, yet consumption demand continues to outpace supply, creating a food gap that is filled through imports. Fish imports peaked in 2019 at around 506 thousand tons, putting pressure on Egypt’s trade balance. Fish is a key dietary component for Egyptians, offering a relatively affordable source of protein compared to red meat and poultry. However, production from natural fisheries (seas, lakes, and the Nile) faces numerous challenges such as overfishing, pollution, weak management, and environmental issues. As a result, aquaculture has become increasingly important, accounting for more than 60% of Egypt’s total fish output. Economically, the fish industry contributes over 10% of agricultural income and provides livelihoods for hundreds of thousands of families. Nevertheless, the sector suffers from obstacles including inadequate infrastructure, unsustainable management, climate change effects, high costs of fishing equipment, and declining fishermen’s incomes. Fishing communities also face social issues such as lack of health and work insurance, exploitation by middlemen, and weak cooperative organization. Between 2010 and 2021, Egypt’s self-sufficiency rate in fish improved (reaching 88.9% in 2020), and per capita fish availability increased, yet both remain insufficient to fully cover rising population needs. The production-consumption gap has widened over time, signaling the need for more effective policies to manage fish resources, expand sustainable aquaculture, and improve fishermen’s living standards. In conclusion, developing both natural and farmed fisheries is a fundamental pillar for achieving food security in Egypt, reducing dependence on imports, and supporting coastal communities and fishermen.