Bahraini-based Shell Fisheries is contributing to improving food security in the region, while exporting a wide range of products to the Middle East, Asia and North America.
In 2001, Shell Fisheries launched a processing plant located in the industrial area of Salmabad. Over the last two decades the company has expanded its operations and invested in modern processing technology. With three specialised factories sourcing products from local and international markets, the business currently has a total plant capacity of 4500 MT per annum.
Sami Al Saif, President of Shell Fisheries, says the company strives to operate as sustainably as possible. “Not only does our company source fish that sell well in the region, we also purchase unwanted fish or bycatch to export to Asia. This benefits local fishermen as they are able to sell everything they catch which enables them to have a steady income.”
There is a big market for frozen fish such as hamour, salmon and shrimp in the MENA markets so these products are imported from international sources, processed and sold in Bahrain, the GCC, Iraq, Jordan and Egypt. Shell Fisheries also sells a range of value added products including breaded shrimp, fish nuggets, cooked shrimps and fish burgers in the same markets.
The regional market for certain frozen crustaceans such as crab is relatively small so the bulk of these products are exported to South Korea, Japan, Malaysia and the USA. Shell Fisheries has also found a market for “trash fish” which refers to products that have little or no market value as human food in the Middle East. These assorted fish such as catfish, queenfish, ribbonfish and jellyfish are processed and exported to markets across Asia.
Sustainability
The fishing sector plays a vital role in ensuring food security in Bahrain as it provides a significant portion of the country’s seafood. However, the industry has undergone significant changes in recent years due to pollution, overfishing, land reclamation and climate change.
Al Saif says Shell Fisheries is committed to ensuring that all of its products are sustainably sourced. “Over the last 20 years we have lobbied for the government to implement various measures to regulate the sector.”
Within the last decade, the Bahraini government has banned certain fishing methods and established marine protected areas to allow fish populations to recover. There are also specific seasons in which fishing is prohibited, as well as limitations on the number fishing vessels that are allowed.
“The passing of these laws have resulted in a more regulated industry,” says Al Saif. “It has removed unhealthy competitors who used to cut corners from the sector. Furthermore, food safety measures have been improved across the board which is a very good thing.”
Looking ahead, Al Saif says Shell Fisheries plans to open a new processing plant in Sitra by early 2023. “This will enable us to add new production lines and expand our capacity. We also intend to expand our range of breaded and cooked products. This will allow us to continue generating export revenue, while supporting local fishermen.”