Ghana's tuna fishing industry is struggling due to high operational costs, including fuel expenses, taxation, port charges, and limited government support. According to Richster Amarh Amarfio, Vice Chairman of the National Fisheries Association of Ghana, these challenges have already led to the collapse of the country's pole line fishing sub-sector. The industry's sustainability is threatened, which could impact Ghana's foreign exchange earnings. The sector's challenges require immediate attention to prevent further decline.
Fuel expenditure is a significant challenge for vessel operators in Ghana's tuna industry. Fishing companies do not receive fuel support and must purchase fuel at market prices. A single fishing vessel consumes approximately 270,000 litres of fuel, making fluctuations in fuel prices a major determinant of operating costs. This high fuel consumption puts pressure on fishing companies, affecting their ability to operate profitably. The industry's reliance on fuel makes it vulnerable to price changes.
The financial burden on Ghana's tuna industry extends beyond fuel expenses. Operators face taxes on fish stocks, spare parts, and equipment, despite fisheries being categorised within the broader agricultural sector. Additionally, port charges, dry docking expenses, and maritime security services required for vessels operating in international waters add to the financial pressures on fishing companies. These cumulative expenses have left operators increasingly vulnerable, requiring deliberate intervention to preserve the sector.
Ghana's tuna industry generates more than US$200 million in foreign exchange annually, making its continued operation significant to the wider economy. The industry's contribution to national economic activity is substantial, and its decline could have far-reaching consequences. To mitigate this risk, Richster Amarh Amarfio called for a more structured government intervention aimed at reducing operational constraints and strengthening the industry. This would enable fishing companies to expand their contribution to national economic activity.
To address the challenges facing Ghana's tuna industry, Richster Amarh Amarfio proposed the creation of a dedicated development authority for the fisheries sector. This authority would provide specialised institutional support and coordinate measures aimed at strengthening the industry. Increased investment in tuna research and processing could also help Ghana derive greater economic value from the sector. By expanding beyond the sale of whole fish into products such as fish oil and fish meal, the industry could increase its revenue streams.
Another concern identified by Richster Amarh Amarfio is the shortage of adequately trained Ghanaian personnel capable of serving as captains, engineers, and other specialised crew members on tuna vessels. The industry continues to rely heavily on experienced Korean workers, many of whom are ageing. This creates an urgent need to develop and certify a new generation of Ghanaian maritime professionals. The Regional Maritime University could play a greater role in addressing the skills deficit.
The Regional Maritime University requires the appropriate infrastructure and a training vessel capable of preparing personnel specifically for the tuna industry. By investing in the development of Ghanaian maritime professionals, the industry can reduce its reliance on foreign workers and increase its sustainability. The proposed interventions, including a dedicated development authority and increased investment in research and processing, could help Ghana's tuna industry overcome its current challenges and continue to contribute significantly to the country's economy.
Key points
- The industry's sustainability is threatened due to high operational costs, including fuel expenses, taxation, and limited government support.
- Ghana's tuna industry generates more than US$200 million in foreign exchange annually, making its continued operation significant to the wider economy.
- The industry faces a shortage of adequately trained Ghanaian personnel, requiring investment in maritime education and training.
