Informal market, local consumption and bartering of inland fisheries

Inland fisheries in developing countries are often under-valued in socio-economic terms. However, millions of people depend on inland fisheries, not only for their income but also as a source of animal protein.

After catching, the fish are taken home to feed the family of the fisher, or taken to the street, where they are sold or traded for other goods. The fish are mostly taken to the street or local market without any hygienic measures, ice or cooling. Often prices are determined in negotiations between buyer and seller.

An informal market like the one described above tends to escape the attention of policy makers and planners, not only because of the difficulties associated with an informal market and data gathering, but also because the socio-economic groups involved are often the weakest ones in society. This tendency can result in the overlooking of the interests of these weakest in society.