The Cuban government, in collaboration with Vietnam, is promoting the commercial farming of lobster in Quemado de Güines, located in Villa Clara province. The initiative aims to "enhance food security" and "increase exports." According to a report from the local state-run station, La reina radial del Centro, the project has been operational since October 2024 and currently houses 1,500 lobsters, boasting a 100% survival rate.
Rufino Rodríguez Sarduy, head of fishing operations at the Basic Business Unit (UEB) Cahamar in Quemado de Güines, noted that early results are encouraging, with lobsters showing an average growth of 120 grams per month. The Philippines Bay was chosen for this commercial venture due to its rich lobster population.
"Presently, we have six cages, each containing about 250 lobsters, totaling roughly 1,500 in cultivation. Our goal is to increase the number of cages, thereby expanding the project. These lobsters reach reproductive maturity at 14 months and can grow to 250 grams in a short period, allowing for their commercialization even during the closed season," Rodríguez Sarduy explained.
Challenges and Doubts Surrounding Food Security
Cuban specialists traveled to Vietnam to learn about lobster farming and marketing techniques in cages, aiming to boost production and simultaneously "contribute to food security and generate exports." However, doubts arise regarding how the export of these lobsters will truly enhance the "food security" of the Cuban populace.
"This project will positively impact the unit, as it enables us to export cage-raised lobsters and generate foreign currency. Moreover, being able to sell them during the closed season increases their market price internationally," a Cuban official stated.
Export Priorities Amid Local Shortages
In other regions like Pinar del Río and Granma, fishing companies also prioritize lobster exports, while Cubans struggle to access seafood products. In 2020, the then Minister of the Food Industry, Manuel Sobrino Martínez, defended this policy, claiming that export revenues from products like lobster and shrimp are vital for purchasing basic food supplies for the population.
Despite the rise in exports, Cuba's fishing industry faces significant challenges. In 2023, for instance, the Pescaisla company on the Isle of Youth failed to meet its annual lobster capture target, blaming factors such as climate change and species migration to deeper waters.
That same year, Episur aimed for a capture plan to reach 250 tons of lobster, a goal deemed essential by the state-run media to solidify its leadership in the national fishing sector. Meanwhile, Cuban citizens continue to contend with a scarcity of seafood products in local markets.
Insights into Cuba's Lobster Farming Initiative
How does the lobster farming project contribute to food security in Cuba?
The project aims to enhance food security by potentially increasing seafood production and generating export revenues, which are said to help acquire basic foods for the Cuban population.
Why was the Philippines Bay chosen for the lobster farming project?
Philippines Bay offers a rich lobster population, making it an ideal location for establishing a commercial lobster farming venture.
What challenges does the Cuban fishing industry face?
The industry faces challenges such as climate change, species migration to deeper waters, and difficulties in meeting capture targets, impacting its operational goals.