Suriname - Fishing

Fishing has become increasingly important, both on inland waterways and at sea. The chief commercial catch is shrimp, which is exported. In 2000, the freshwater catch was 200 tons, and marine landings amounted to 16,000 tons. Shrimp production totaled 1,650 tons that year. The Fisheries Service, founded in 1947, has worked to develop the fishing industry. Exports of fish and fish products in 2000 amounted to nearly $4.8 million. Japan is the largest market for Surinamese shrimp.