Cape Verde & Japan Partner for Industrial Fishing Boom
Cape Verde is looking to transform its fishing industry from a traditional trade into a modern industrial powerhouse through a deepened strategic partnership with Japan. The Minister of the Sea, Jorge Santos, announced the ambitious vision on São Vicente island during a ceremony marking a significant donation of maritime equipment from the Japanese government.
Moving Beyond Extraction toward Industrialization
Minister Santos emphasized that the relationship between the two nations should evolve past simple fishing rights. “We want to have Japan as a partner for the industrialization of fishing in Cape Verde,” he stated. “The goal is not just to have Japanese boats operating in Cape Verdean waters, but also to establish strategies between businesspeople from both countries.”
Currently, a bilateral agreement allows Japanese vessels to operate starting 18 miles off the archipelago’s coast. As of 2024, 35 Japanese vessels are active in the region, utilizing up to 42 fishing licenses. However, the Cape Verdean government is now calling for Japanese investment in science, technology, and market development to build a localized industrial infrastructure.
Strengthening the ‘Blue Economy’
The vision for collaboration extends beyond the docks. Minister Santos highlighted that Cape Verde is seeking Japanese expertise and investment across the entire “blue economy,” including sustainable tourism and advanced maritime technologies. “Above all, the country wants to have strong action from Japan at the level of tourism, other forms of technology, and business opportunities,” Santos noted.
Immediate Boost for Local Fishing Communities
The call for industrialization was accompanied by a practical boost for the nation’s artisanal fishermen. The Japanese government delivered over €2 million worth of essential equipment to support local associations on the islands of São Nicolau, Brava, and Santo Antão.
The donation, presented by Japanese Ambassador Izawa Osamu, includes:
- 100 outboard motors for fishing boats
- Three industrial ice-making machines
- 50 thermal boxes for fish preservation
- Two refrigerated trucks for transport
- Two seven-meter fishing vessels
Continued Humanitarian Support
In addition to maritime cooperation, the diplomatic bond between the two nations continues to cover food security. On Friday, Cape Verde is scheduled to sign a new agreement with Japan worth approximately €913,000 to provide food assistance to the archipelago.
Image: Pexels – Mike van Schoonderwalt
