Policy brief - Estimating the impact of irregular and unsustainable fishing of distant-

ODI Policy brief Supported by: Policy brief Estimating the impact of irregular and unsustainable fishing of distant- water fishing fleets in Ecuador Miren Gutierrez and Alberto Lemma April 2024 Abstract This policy brief provides an overview of the composition and practices of the Ecuadorian fleet and foreign fleets present in the Ecuadorian Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). [...] It describes the types of vessels operating in the area, and the ownership structure, as well as discussing the controversies surrounding some of the major companies involved in the country’s fishing industry. [...] These price dynamics are crucial for understanding the economic viability and sustainability of the fisheries sector, affecting everything from the income of fishers to the affordability of fish for consumers. [...] The economic impact attributable to the fishing activities of these firms is then estimated by multiplying the payload by the fish price and a constant factor, offering insights into the financial significance of the fishing industry within each country’s economy. [...] This method facilitates a comparison of the economic efficiency and productivity of the fisheries sector across different countries, highlighting the variance in economic impact due to the activities of the examined firms.