Trabzon is one of the most important fishing centers in the Black Sea, as well as an important departure point for Turkish boats that continue their fishing activities in international oceans. These fishing activities continue in the Atlantic and Indian Oceans within the framework of Türkiye's international agreements, while also contributing to the local economy and providing significant support to Türkiye's foreign trade.
International Fishing Agreements and Turkish Boats
Turkish fishing boats fish in various seas, especially the West African coast of the Atlantic Ocean and the Oman coast of the Indian Ocean. These activities play an important role in the sustainable use of Türkiye's marine resources and contribute to the growth of the local fishing economy. Large-tonnage boats that set off from Trabzon fish in these oceans, both making a living and contributing to the Turkish economy. These boats generally operate in the open seas of countries such as Mauritania, Senegal and Oman.
Benefits and Challenges of Hunting Abroad
Ahmet Mutlu, President of the Eastern Black Sea Fishermen's Cooperatives Union, stated that it is important for large-tonnage boats to fish abroad in order to reduce domestic fishing pressure. In this way, the intensity of fishing activities in local seas will decrease and the sustainability of the seas can be ensured. Mutlu said, “In order to reduce domestic pressure, large boats need to work in the open seas. Although these are open seas and risky areas, productivity is good,” and emphasized that fishing in the open seas can reduce domestic fishing pressure.
However, fishing in the open seas also has its challenges. Fishermen state that they can return without catching fish for several months in particular, and that this process creates economic difficulties. Although technical equipment and fishing efficiency are high, fishermen may have to wait for several months in some regions.
Government Support and Economic Challenges
One of the biggest problems for Trabzon fishermen is the difficulty they face in transferring the income they earn abroad to Türkiye. Ahmet Mutlu stated that fishermen have difficulty transferring their income to Türkiye and that they need state support to solve this problem. “We do not have a bank branch there. Our fishermen transfer their income to Türkiye in their own way. This is a serious problem. We are looking for a market individually, but state support and assurance are essential,” he said, adding that the incentives and support provided by the government will play an important role in solving this problem.
Another challenge is high fuel prices and rising costs. The fuel costs that large fishing boats face while operating at sea for long periods of time are increasing exponentially, especially with the price of diesel reaching 50 TL per liter. Mutlu stated that these high costs constitute an obstacle for the boats to continue their activities, and that this can be overcome with state support.
Contribution of Turkish Boats to Sustainable Fishing and Economy
Turkish fishing boats continue their activities in the open seas in countries such as Mauritania, Senegal, Oman and Sierra Leone. While these boats are of great importance for the sustainability of the seas, they also make significant contributions to the Turkish economy. Sector representatives believe that the right guidance and support of the state should be implemented in order for the fishing sector to operate efficiently, and emphasize that these activities should continue despite increasing costs and difficulties.
As a result, Trabzon's fishing boats play an important role not only for Turkey but also for the world's seas. These fishing activities on the high seas make a significant contribution to Türkiye's seafood trade and support the local economy. However, state support is of great importance in overcoming the difficulties faced by the sector.
