San Francisco de Campeche, Campeche – On August 4, 2025, fishing‐industry leaders across Campeche announced plans to halt illegal octopus exports unless federal authorities intervene. Representatives from Campeche met virtually with counterparts in Quintana Roo and Yucatán to coordinate a blockade of shipments of Maya octopus and other marine species allegedly caught outside legal quotas. They blame the Secretariat of the Navy (SEMAR) and the National Fisheries and Aquaculture Commission (Conapesca) for inaction during the new season, which began August 1.
Local exporters say market demand is driving unregulated fishing and endangering a resource vital to coastal communities. Emiliano Torres, president of the Campeche Fisheries Council, said fishermen have reported vessels using unauthorized gear to harvest octopus at night. “We cannot stand by,” he said. “If SEMAR and Conapesca do not enforce the law, we will block every illegal shipment at port.”
Illegal Octopus Exports Drive Threats
Industry leaders drafted a formal petition demanding immediate patrols and inspections by SEMAR and Conapesca within 72 hours. They warned of economic losses for processors and traders who rely on sustainably caught octopus. According to the petition, unauthorized exports undercut fair prices and threaten legal operators, pushing some small‐scale fishermen toward debt.
Federal regulations set strict catch limits and seasonal closures to protect the Maya octopus—a species native to the southern Gulf of Mexico. Violations carry fines of up to 1 million pesos and potential vessel seizures. Yet local businesses lament that recent patrols have been sporadic. They say Conapesca has allocated insufficient inspectors to cover Campeche’s extensive coastline.
“Without consistent enforcement, our communities suffer,” said Rosa Méndez, owner of a seafood processing plant in Lerma. She noted that legal exporters must invest in traceability systems and certification to access international markets. Ms. Méndez added that a blockade would serve as a wake-up call to federal agencies.
Pressure Rises on SEMAR and Conapesca
In Mexico City, spokespeople for SEMAR and Conapesca acknowledged receipt of the petition but did not confirm specific actions. A Conapesca official, speaking on background, said the agency is reviewing its deployment plan but cited budget constraints. SEMAR likewise said it would assess vessel traffic reports before increasing patrols.
Environmental groups have backed the fisherfolk’s demands, calling for joint operations among the Navy, federal police, and environmental authorities. “Illegal fishing depletes stocks and damages habitats,” said Dr. Arturo García of the Gulf Marine Research Institute. He urged a rapid, coordinated response to deter criminal networks profiting from wildlife crimes.
Fishing Communities Face Uncertain Season
While talks continue, some coastal towns are already feeling the strain. Reports indicate that prices for legal Maya octopus have dropped by 15 percent at local auctions since August 1. Small‐scale fishermen say lower prices threaten their household income and could force families to seek alternative livelihoods.
Industry leaders plan to reconvene on August 10 to review the response from federal agencies. Should SEMAR and Conapesca fail to commit to enhanced enforcement, they will mobilize vessels at major ports such as Seybaplaya and Ciudad del Carmen to physically block suspicious shipments.
As the Illegal Octopus Exports dispute unfolds, Campeche’s fishing sector is testing its leverage. The outcome may determine whether federal agencies renew their focus on marine conservation or leave local operators to safeguard resources on their own.
