Panama ships adopt satellite plan

PANAMA. The polemic with the Authority of Aquatic Resources of Panama (ARAP) over satellite monitoring has apparently been remedied, with 280 ships that make up the industrial fleet agreeing to install the new system before March 16.

Fishing companies had initially opposed the system, saying it was an additional problem for the sector in difficult times.

They also questioned the fact that only one company was authorized to provide the service.

But after negotiations, the government agreed to cover 70 percent of the costs of the system’s installation ($1,200 per ship).

Fishing companies will have to pay for the rest, plus the costs of maintenance, which average $100 per month per ship.

The contract has already been signed and the president of the Association of Producers and Exporters of Sea Products (APESXMAR), Valerio de Sanctis, said that offers from companies interested in providing the service will be evaluated.

This system allows authorities to keep track of the fishing boats’ location, and will be mandatory.