The guidelines provide principles and basic considerations on microfinance services to fisheries and aquaculture. Lending models, methodologies and policies are elaborated that are applicable to fisheries while adhering to best practices in the microfinance field. An overview is given of recent experiences with microfinance programmes in fisheries and aquaculture in Asia and conclusions are drawn regarding future directions and initiatives. Two case studies of FAO-executed projects incorporating microfinance programmes in coastal fishing community development in the Philippines and in small-scale aquaculture development in Viet Nam provide examples of how microfinance can contribute to the empowerment of women in fishing and fish farming communities, help alleviate poverty and contribute to the socio-economic well-being and food security of fishers and fish farmers.
