|
Photo: Stockfile/FIS
IFOP and Korean Maritime Institute Strengthen Research on Giant Squid
CHILE
Monday, December 01, 2025, 00:10 (GMT + 9)
The Fisheries Development Institute (IFOP) of Chile hosted a distinguished delegation from the Korea Maritime Institute (KMI) to reinforce international scientific cooperation.
The meeting focused on the sustainable management of the jibia or giant squid (Dosidicus gigas) fishery, a resource of high commercial and ecological value for both nations.

Photo: IFOP
Strategic Exchange and Crucial Data
The gathering of Chilean and Korean experts served as a platform for exchanging fundamental knowledge about this resource. Discussions centered on catch volumes and the current condition of the jibia's stock.
-
Jibia's Relevance: The jibia is a key fishery in Chile, especially for the artisanal sector. For instance, the total jibia landing in Chile accumulated up to December 2024 was 136.1 thousand tons (t), a figure representing an increase of 29.4% compared to the same period in 2023. A large part of this extraction, 98% in the first half of 2024, corresponds to the artisanal sector.
-
Resource Status: Despite its commercial importance, the resource status as of 2024 is overexploited, according to the Scientific Technical Committee for Demersal Resources Central-South Zone, and its status has remained in this condition since 2020.
-
IFOP Leadership: Representing IFOP were Dr. Carlos Montenegro, Head of the Fisheries Research Division; MSc. Karen Belmar, specialist in the Jibia fishery; and Marcelo Nilo, Head of International Affairs and Cooperation. Also present were Dr. Patricia Zárate, Head of the Fisheries Evaluation Department, and Carlos Techeira, Head of the Resource Evaluation Department, among other authorities.

Photo: IFOP
Tour of State-of-the-Art Laboratories
The KMI Korean delegation complemented the day with a technical visit to the IFOP facilities. They toured the Oceanography and Age and Growth Laboratories, aiming to gain an in-depth understanding of the methodology and cutting-edge equipment used in fisheries and environmental research in Chile.
The visit was guided by Dr. Carlos Montenegro and Dr. Francisco Cerna, Head of the area, who emphasized the relevance of these facilities for evidence-based decision-making.

Photo: IFOP
Next Step: Research Alliances
The day concluded with an atmosphere of high expectation, reaffirming the commitment of IFOP and KMI to strengthen their cooperation ties. This meeting lays the groundwork for future joint research alliances, essential for the sustainable management of marine resources, such as the jibia, within the context of the South Pacific.
[email protected]
www.seafood.media
|
|