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Key Points

Israel is making a major policy shift in its fish farming industry. The government is moving from protective tariffs to direct financial support for farmers totaling about 65 million Shekels each year. This change will phase out tariffs completely by 2029 while providing stability for local fish producers. Consumers should benefit from increased competition and potentially lower prices as the market opens up.

Key Points: Israel Shifts from Tariffs to Direct Fish Farmer Support

  • Israel transitions from protective tariffs to direct farmer support worth 65M Shekels annually
  • Tilapia, carp and mullet farmers receive 40M Shekels support from 2026-2029
  • Tariffs on fresh fish will be completely eliminated by 2029
  • Market opening expected to increase competition and reduce consumer costs
  • Direct support ranges from 2 to 3.5 Shekels per kilogram through 2032
  • Approximately 9,000 tons of traditional fish farmed annually in Israel
2 min read

Israel switches from tariffs to supports to stimulate local fish farming

Israel's historic agriculture policy shift provides 65M Shekels annual support to fish farmers while phasing out tariffs to reduce consumer costs by 2029.

"historic - Israel's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security"

Tel Aviv, October 9

In a move described as "historic," Israel's Ministry of Agriculture and Food Security will provide support totalling approximately 65 million Shekels (USD 19.7 million) per year to fish farmers in Israel.

An outline reached in an inter-ministerial agreement between the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Agriculture, with the support of farmers' organisations, will complete the transition from protective tariffs to direct support and ensure long-term stability for growers and the industry. At the same time, the opening of the market is expected to benefit the consumer, increase competition, and lead to a reduction in the cost of living, said the ministries.

The agreement completes the industry's transition from indirect support through protective tariffs to a framework of direct support for farmers. Accordingly, tilapia, carp and mullet farmers will benefit from support totaling 40 million Shekels (USD 12.25 million) per year in 2026-2029, and 25-35 million Shekels (USD 7.66 - 10.72 million) between 2030-2032.

At the same time, tariffs on fresh fish of these types will be gradually reduced in three stages until completely removed in 2029. Within the framework of the framework between 2026-2032, these fish will benefit from direct support per kilogram in a framework decreasing from 2 to NIS 3.5 Shekels per kilogram. Currently, approximately 9,000 tons of this type of fish are farmed in Israel, and they are considered beloved, fresh and healthy, and constitute a significant part of the traditional consumption of fish in Israel. (ANI/TPS)

- ANI

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Reader Comments

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Priya S
As someone who buys fish regularly, I hope this actually reduces prices for consumers. In India, we see similar promises but implementation is key. Will be watching how this plays out in Israel.
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Sarah B
Good to see governments supporting sustainable fishing practices. The gradual transition period shows thoughtful planning. Hope our fisheries department takes note of such models.
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Arjun K
While the intention is good, I'm concerned about the long-term sustainability. Direct subsidies can sometimes create dependency. The decreasing support framework is smart, but monitoring will be crucial.
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Meera T
Tilapia and carp are popular here too! This move could make Israeli fish exports more competitive globally. Indian fish farmers need similar policy support to compete in international markets. 🇮🇳
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David E
The inter-ministerial coordination is impressive. In India, different ministries often work in silos. This collaborative approach between finance and agriculture ministries is worth emulating.

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