PUERTO MONTT, CHILE — In the heart of the Chilean Patagonia, the nation’s lucrative salmon farms is under scrutiny as it adapts to increasing global demand while grappling with environmental concerns and regulatory challenges. As the second-largest exporter of farmed salmon worldwide, Chile’s industry is vital to its economy but is facing criticism over farming practices in sensitive ecological areas.
Arrière-plan
Chile’s coastal regions, particularly around Puerto Montt, are home to a robust salmon farming sector that has transformed local economies. Chief Corporate Officer of Multi X, Francisco Lobos, highlighted this transformation, stating, “Salmon’s been part of this region’s industrial revolution.” He noted that the industry has reduced poverty and stimulated job creation, with many families benefiting from related support services.
The roots of the salmon industry in Chile date back to the late 19th century when Atlantic salmon eggs were imported from the UK. By the 1970s, salmon farming began to grow significantly, with 1,343 active farms reported by the end of 2023. The industry exported 782,076 tonnes of salmon and trout in 2024, valued at approximately $6.4 billion, making it Chile’s third-largest export after copper and fresh fruit.
Les Préoccupations Environnementales
However, the expansion of salmon farms has sparked significant environmental concerns. Critics point to the 408 salmon farming concessions located in environmentally protected areas, including 294 in national reserves and 29 in national parks, where such activities are generally prohibited. Activist Flavia Liberona of the Terram Foundation emphasized the ecological damage inflicted by these farms, stating that fish farming practices lead to pollution and a reduction in marine oxygen levels.
“We want to protect the natural habitat of the entire Chilean Patagonia region,” said Liberona. “Salmon farming causes various environmental problems. A lot of the pellets and fish faeces end up on the seabed, leading to less oxygen which destroys marine life.”
Industry Response
In response to these criticisms, industry leaders like Arturo Clements, chairman of Salmón Chile, have voiced the need for a more supportive regulatory framework. He lamented the heavy regulations and disputes regarding sea usage, stating, “For us, it’s been very difficult to grow… What we need is a long-term strategy regarding salmon farming.”
Clements also clarified the industry’s position in relation to national parks, asserting that some concessions are not in use and that the industry has requested their relocation without action from the government. Current regulations, overseen by the Undersecretariat for Fisheries and Aquaculture, attempt to balance development with environmental protection.
Government Initiatives
Julio Salas Gutiérrez, the Chilean Undersecretary of Fisheries and Aquaculture, responded by stating that the government is actively working on relocating fish farms from national parks. “It’s not right to claim that the government has done nothing for years regarding the relocation of concessions,” he explained. He acknowledged the complexities of the relocation process and the bureaucratic challenges involved.
Experts, including Matt Craze from Spheric Research, indicated that the industry could attract more investment if there were greater regulatory clarity and assurance about farming areas. However, with a general election approaching, the regulatory landscape may remain uncertain.
La Recherche Avance
As global demand for farmed salmon is anticipated to rise by 40% by 2033, Chile’s salmon producers are eager to expand their production capabilities. Yet, as they pursue growth, addressing environmental concerns and navigating regulatory frameworks will be crucial. The balance between economic growth and ecological preservation remains a contentious and critical issue for Chile’s salmon farming industry.
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