During the month of December, the Azuero region has experienced a climatic situation marked by constant rains, and in some sectors, they have been sporadic. This situation has caused disruptions in various productive sectors, including fishing and the commercialization of seafood. Artisanal fishermen and shellfish sellers have stated that adverse weather conditions have led to a decrease in production and the amount of seafood reaching local markets. The rains and bad weather have limited fishing activities, reducing the usual supply of fish and shellfish available for sale. José Pérez, a shellfish seller with a stall at Merca de Chitré, explained that this situation has directly affected sales, which have been diminished due to the atypical season the region is experiencing. However, he highlighted that consuming whole fish and shellfish during the end-of-year celebrations is a long-standing tradition in Azuero homes. "Putting a whole fish on the table at the end of the year, along with other seafood, is a very deeply rooted custom in our families to welcome the New Year." "For this reason, we hope that in the last weeks of the year sales can improve", Pérez pointed out. The merchant also indicated that when there is a greater influx of people in the market, especially during sales days for products from the Agropecuary Marketing Institute (IMA), such as rice and other basic foods, many customers take the opportunity to purchase seafood, which represents an opportunity to boost sales. "We hope to be able to increase these sales and we know that we will achieve it at the end of the year", he affirmed, confident that the tradition and commercial activity typical of the season will contribute to the recovery of the sector.
