21. A solution to the serious, prevailing economic and social problems in Latin America, (still conditioned by complex international political and financial interdependence), must be based on the balanced and judicious use of local resources. One appropriate activity in this connection is aquaculture, which in some cases has already proven significant economic impact at the country level. Increasing attention is now being paid to aquaculture in virtually all the countries, which is understandable as:
there is an abundant natural resource base in almost all (water bodies, coastal zones, aquatic organisms);
the activity is generally viewed favourably because of its economic success in certain countries (for example, shrimp culture in Ecuador, salmon farming in Chile, Tilapia culture in Cuba and Jamaica).
22. A particular feature of this activity is the range of technology in use, which may range from extremely rudimentary to highly advanced. Aquaculture may be a complement to agriculture (using its waste resources), or an outright industrial concern, with differing levels of unit investment (starting from close to zero). Production can therefore be organized in a variety of ways.
23. The development objectives for aquaculture may be grouped as follows:
To increase commercial aquaculture output, thereby:
Increasing aquaculturist income;
Facilitating the opening of alternative markets for aquaculture products;
Increasing foreign currency earnings through increased exports.
To increase the availability of low-cost aquaculture products with a view to:
Facilitating the achievement of food security;
Enhancing the diet of the population of rural areas and urban peripheries;
Incorporating women in aquaculture production activities;
Promoting rural settlement.
Increasing employment opportunities.
