16. Presenting Document FI:SCA/2001/3, the Secretariat reviewed guidelines for assessing potential markets for farmed fish, providing an overview of the markets for catfish, shrimp and tilapia, and proposed recommendations on policy to governments and industry with regard to organization of commercial aquaculture and marketing.
17. Markets in the region were generally considered important although import duties could pose a considerable constraint. An issue of concern raised was the negative perception and associated low acceptance of fish produced from Africa in foreign markets. The Consultation concurred that the issue of food safety and quality was of overriding importance, both for domestic and export markets, and that FAO had an important role to play in assisting Member countries to achieve the standards for food safety encountered in importing countries.
18. Besides the compliance with international rules and regulations related to food safety and quality, establishing marketing presence in export markets was considered to be of great importance. Developing a commodity/brand which is internationally recognized, was considered a necessary step for success in commercial aquaculture ventures.
19. The Consultation noted that actions by Governments which could facilitate the development of commercial aquaculture included the harmonization of rules and regulations for intra-regional trade, the spreading of risk for producers by targeting multiple markets within and outside the Region, and producing value-added commodities.
