a strong and positive impact on the export sector while at the same time trying to support projects that cover climate change, create jobs, and benefit the most disadvantaged population groups. IFC support for Ecuador started when the country joined the institution in 1956. Since that time, IFC has invested roughly US$540 million in the county. IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused on the private sector in emerging markets. Working with more than 2,000 businesses worldwide, IFC uses its capi-
tal, expertise, and influence to create opportunity where it is needed most. In FY15, its long-term investments in developing countries totaled close to US$18 billion, allowing the private sector to play a key role in global efforts to end extreme poverty and boost shared prosperity. For more information, visit www.ifc.org.
Honduran Shrimp industry in crisis due to 30% decrease in production The low price of shrimp in international markets has affected the volume of Honduran farmed shrimp
production, which fell between 20 and 30% over the past year according to officials of the National Aquaculture Association of Honduras (Andah). This has resulted in over US$50 million in losses, detailed ANDAH. One factor being blamed for the reduced production is the effect of climate change, with increased salinity levels which caused the death of aquaculture animals. “Last year was a somewhat atypical with little rain, causing increased salinity and temperatures and altering the natural habitat of the shrimp,” said Javier Amador, executive director of the association of shrimp producers. According to the most recent trade balance report of the Central Bank of Honduras (BCH) through September 2015, exports of this product decreased to $114.4 million, reflecting a sharp drop from $166.5 million during the same period in 2014. “The reduction is attributed to the fall in export volume (20.8%) and price (13.2%), following the outbreak of vibriosis bacteria causing mortality, in addition to the slow development of this seafood crop by the lack of rain in production areas,” the Central Bank report stated. The United Kingdom, Mexico and the United States were the main buyers of shrimp produced in the country. “We are sending to Taiwan, Hong Kong and Vietnam, achieving strengthened markets to continue exporting,” said Ricardo Gomez, president of Andah.
Yojaira Paternina Cordoba has a degree in Animal Husbandry from the National University of Colombia. She currently manages production, technical and marketing activities at Piscicola del Valle, S.A., specializing in production of red tilapia (Oreochromis sp.) and the white cachama (Piaractus brachypomus).
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