Representative Karen Medina (Indep-DC), with the cross-party support of representatives from Biobío, has presented a bill

Chilean Deputy Karen Medina Proposes 'Jibia Law' (giant squid) to Protect Artisanal Fishermen

CHILE
Friday, June 13, 2025, 00:10 (GMT + 9)

The initiative seeks to declare the jumbo squid a unique national fishing unit, allowing Biobío fishermen to operate without sanctions despite the species' migratory nature.

VALPARAÍSO – Deputy Karen Medina (Independent-DC), with cross-party support from Biobío deputies, has introduced a bill requesting the President of the Republic to issue a Supreme Decree declaring the jumbo squid (Dosidicus gigas) as a Unique National Fishery Unit. This measure aims to safeguard artisanal fishermen who face sanctions for operating outside their registered regions, despite the jumbo squid being a highly migratory species.

The capture of jumbo squid (jibia) stands out as an entirely artisanal and physically demanding activity for fishermen. (Photo: Stockfile)

The initiative arises from the difficulties faced by fishermen, particularly in the Biobío Region, who are penalized by legislation that does not reflect the species' behavior. "Current legislation does not reflect the reality our fishermen live. That's why, from this Congress, we have presented this project to recognize the jumbo squid as a unique national fishery," stated Congresswoman Medina. She added that fishermen "are mobilized because they have not been heard, and the measures applied only harm them."

All stages of its processing are performed manually, which in turn generates a substantial amount of labor across the various phases of the fishing sector. This manual approach underscores the dedication and effort involved in each catch within this important fishery. (Photo: Stockfile)

The proposed bill aims to authorize all registered artisanal vessels to operate within the macro-zone spanning from Region I to Region X, promoting fisheries management consistent with the jumbo squid's migratory patterns.

Finally, the parliamentarian emphasized that this measure is crucial for advancing towards more equitable fisheries governance, coherent with the country's territorial and social reality.

[email protected]
www.seafood.media

Print