Analysis of supply and consumption of fish: some welfare implications

It was found that an average Filipino was self sufficient in protein with fish and fish products as major source during the period 1980-2000. As a matter of fact, an average Filipino is 106% sufficient in protein until 1993. The same scenario ass projected can be seen up to the year 2011 provided that increases in production of food protein from different food sources (including fish) can be sustained. From the list of options to ensure food (fish) security that has been screened using certain framework, intuitively, option 1, i.e. present rate of fish production accompanied by decreased importation and increased exportation seems to be the best alternative. Of all the options, this option satisfies all the criteria (e.g. optimum benefits and doability) for selecting the best option to ensure food (fish) security. Under the assumption "ceteris paribus", if the government opts to pursue option 1, the following should be considered: a) vigorous education and information campaign on the use of other good sources of protein such as soybean, chicken, pork and mongo; b) granting incentives to fish exporters to enhance exportation of fish and fishery products; c) revitalizing the fish processing industry by providing right incentives to fish processors; d) use of local fish products as ingredient in feed manufacturing thus minimizing fish importation; e) R & D [research and development] to reduce post-harvest losses; f) increases in production in commercial fisheries and aquaculture have to be sustained through expansion in area/size of operation or increase productivity through the application of modern technology; g) in the case of municipal fisheries, conservation programs and strict implementation of laws on illegal fishing and use of destructive and illegal fishing methods; and h) a marketing strategy can be devised to re-channel excess supply of fish (from regions with excess fish supply) to regions which have deficiency in supply of fish