Samsun Fishing Sector: $122 Million Export and Sustainable Fishing Focus

Samsun's fishing sector achieved a significant export milestone in 2025, shipping 19,000 tons of sea products worth $122 million. Kemal Yılmaz, the Agriculture and Forestry Regional Director, noted that there are 639 licensed fishing vessels in Samsun, with 498 operating in the seas and 141 in inland waters. He highlighted that 197 of these vessels exceed 12 meters in length, primarily used for gillnetting and trolling. Additionally, 4,335 individuals are licensed to work on these vessels. In 2025, Samsun harvested 59,000 tons from fishing and 14,400 tons from aquaculture, totaling 73,400 tons of sea products. These products were processed into value-added items in local facilities and exported to the EU, Russia, Japan, the United States, and South Korea. Yılmaz emphasized the importance of sustainable fishing, stressing that fish stocks must be passed on to future generations. He also urged fishermen to consider meteorological data and comply with fishing regulations. These developments underscore the significant contribution of Samsun's fishing sector to Turkey's economy. Markets will closely monitor how this news impacts the sector.