The Ministry of Economy and the Undersecretariat of Fisheries and Aquaculture (Subpesca) announced on Apr. 1 a mitigation plan aimed at supporting the artisanal fishing sector, which has been affected by rising fuel prices. The plan is expected to benefit around 9,000 small-scale vessels.
This initiative seeks to ensure continued operations in artisanal fishing, protect jobs, and safeguard food security at a time when fuel costs are a critical factor for the sector’s development. The government said that the measure is designed to help prevent operational disruptions among smaller vessels that are particularly vulnerable to increased costs.
Osvaldo Urrutia, Undersecretary of Fisheries and Aquaculture, said, “the fishing industry in our country is one of the most important productive areas we have, and for this reason we have worked tirelessly over recent days to generate a proposal that allows us to mitigate, in part, the effects of rising fuel prices affecting our country so as not to reduce the operability of artisanal fisheries throughout Chile.”
Prior to announcing these measures, Urrutia met with artisanal fishers from El Membrillo and Portales coves in Valparaíso Region. Fishers shared their concerns about how higher fuel costs—accounting for between 30% and 60% of operating expenses—are directly impacting profitability and family livelihoods along coastal communities.
The mitigation plan includes a one-time sectoral bonus paid in advance as a direct transfer per vessel. Eligible recipients must have valid registration with documented activity during 2025; each will receive $100,000 monthly for six months through Indespa with Subpesca’s support. The total cost is estimated at $6 billion pesos.
Urrutia said: “We have managed to implement this aid very responsibly—adjusted according to current fiscal conditions but without losing sight of such an important productive sector as artisanal fishing. It is they who go out every day; their efforts drive local economies and create jobs.” He added: “We will continue working directly with artisanal fishers and provide greater stability so they can keep working calmly.”
The proposal focuses on targeting active small-scale producers without formal business status who are excluded from other compensation mechanisms like diesel tax refunds. By prioritizing these units through direct support payments, authorities aim for efficient use of public funds while reaching those most dependent on fishing for their livelihood.
With this initiative, officials intend to offer timely support amid ongoing challenges facing Chile’s local fisheries while reinforcing assistance for an industry vital both locally and nationally.
