Economic viability of mechanized fishing units and socioeconomics of fishing ban in Kerala

Abstract

In open access unregulated marine fisheries, the viability of a fishing unit greatly influences the entry or exit of vessels in the fishing industry. The economic performance of fishing operations is affected by various factors including fluctuations in revenue, diminishing catch per unit of effort, unforeseen increases in the cost of key inputs as well as catch and effort restrictions. Capital and labour will continue to enter the fishery until the economic rents are totally dissipated and profits to individual units are reduced to the level of their opportunity costs. In the long run, the reduction in catch rates lead to reduction in fishing effort levels. The economic performance also plays a crucial role in the investment decisions at micro level. The paper analyses the viability of various mechanized fishing units in the Kerala state using different economic and financial indicators. Socioeconomic impact of fishing ban on fishing labour was also worked out and suggestions were given for improving the livelihood security of fish workers.