A modern shrimp peeling plant is under construction in the fishing port of Vacamonte, in West Panama. Projections indicate that once operational, the plant will create between 600 and 700 jobs. Luis Camacho, a representative of Muelles de Atún y Marpesca, explained that this facility will be the largest in the region, with a processing capacity of 10,000 pounds of shrimp per hour. Additionally, it is estimated that around 40 vessels, both company-owned and from the fishing sector, will be employed in shrimp capture tasks. Consequently, once the plant becomes operational, it is expected to generate between 600 and 700 direct and indirect jobs. The first phase of the project will focus on shrimp export, with an initial projection of 14 containers, while a second phase contemplates the processing and export of fish, thus expanding the country's exportable offer, Camacho explained. Asian and US markets are poised to be the main destinations for Panamanian shrimp. This volume amounts to 80,000 pounds daily. This new plant will be located at the facilities of Muelles de Atún, S.A., which has partnered with Marpesca, S.A. to carry out this project. Astrid Ábrego, Vice Minister of Foreign Trade, stated that the project is supported by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MICI) with the aim of increasing exports and strengthening the country's competitiveness.
Panama to Open Region's Largest Shrimp Processing Plant
A new shrimp processing plant in Vacamonte will create 600-700 jobs. The project, backed by the government, aims to boost Panama's exports and economy.
