In recent weeks, fish prices in Bahrain’s Central Market have been on the rise due to a shortage of local fish and an increased reliance on imports. Fishmongers at the market have indicated that the hot weather has made it difficult to catch local fish, leading to a scarcity of larger fish and an abundance of small, imported varieties. The price hike has affected all types of fish, with most of the available stock coming from countries such as India, Pakistan, Oman, Yemen, and Oman.
Jaafar Saleh, a fishmonger at the Central Market, highlighted that the current supply of local fish is limited to small varieties measuring no more than 12 cm in length, caught in the waters off Sitra. He mentioned that the price of small fish has surged to as much as BD 1.50 per piece, indicating a significant increase. Imported fish from countries such as Yemen and Oman are also available in the market, but at a higher price of BD 3 per kg. Saleh estimates that approximately 70% of the fish currently for sale is imported.
Customers visiting the Central Market are facing a tough decision between purchasing smaller, cheaper fish or opting for the more expensive imported varieties due to the lack of local supply. The price of large ‘Safi’ fish has reached BD 6 per kg, while smaller ‘Safi’ is selling for between BD 3 and BD 3.50 per kg, as confirmed by fishmonger Jameel Al Khanizi. He attributed the price increase to low supply and intense competition among fishermen in the market.
The high fish prices are taking a toll on consumers, making it challenging for them to afford their preferred choices. Many are having to make compromises or adjustments in their purchases due to the inflation in prices. The scarcity of local fish is also raising concerns within the local fishing industry, which is struggling to adapt to the changing conditions caused by the hot weather and unfavorable fishing conditions. The increased reliance on imported fish is a temporary solution but may not be sustainable in the long run.
The price of refrigerators at the Central Market, which can store 40-45 kg of fish, ranges from BD 105 to BD 200 depending on size and quality. Most of these refrigerators are also imported, reflecting the overall trend of reliance on imported goods in the market. The situation highlights the importance of addressing the challenges faced by the local fishing industry to ensure a stable and sustainable supply of fish for consumers in Bahrain.
In conclusion, the rising fish prices in Bahrain’s Central Market are a result of a shortage of local fish, driven by the hot weather and unfavorable fishing conditions. The increased reliance on imported varieties has led to higher prices for consumers, who are facing tough decisions when purchasing fish. The local fishing industry is struggling to cope with the changing conditions, emphasizing the need for sustainable solutions to ensure a stable and affordable fish supply for the people of Bahrain.
