“An inevitable crisis”: a shortage of gray shrimp and record prices expected this winter

AWhile the Netherlands has around 200 shrimp fishing boats, Belgium only has around fifteen. The Belgian fleet is therefore authorized to fish a little more freely, even if shrimp remains a seasonal product which depends on supply and demand.

“The catches were fair to good from June to October,” says Steven Timmermans of wholesaler Alfa Fish. “However, the crisis is looming on the horizon. It is not yet fully felt by individuals, but it seems inevitable. » According to Steven Timmermans, the catches are insufficient, in particular because of the lower quantity of shrimp at sea.

The Flemish professional association Rederscentrale also believes that it is not unrealistic to think that the scenario of last winter will repeat itself. “Three years ago, we had a record year, then the situation got worse,” she says. “During the winter months, shrimp seek deeper depths, which is why catches are moderate now and prices will increase again like last winter. »

Peeled gray shrimps currently cost 60 to 70 euros per kilo in stores. By the end of next month, this figure could reach 80 to 90 euros.

From this Monday, November 25, German, Danish and Dutch shrimp fishermen are allowed to stay at sea for a maximum of 72 hours per week. Violators face a fine. The measures could become even stricter at the beginning of December.