THE CARIBBEAil AREA — CUBA 



but are not utilized to any great extent. 



Practically unused are the olfshore migratory species such as tuna and swordfish. 

 Other migratory fish such as kingfish and Spanish mackerel are fished only to a limited 

 extent. '.Tnile runs of these fish are probably seasonal, they can contribute greatly to 

 the supply. 



Sharks are utilized to scMie extent, but increased activity in shark fishing is pro- 

 baby dependent on fishing for other kinds of fish oron higher prices for shark products. 



Various types of Crustacea such as crabs and shrimp are not taken in significant 

 quantities, even though there are definite indications of potentially greater yields. 



The si^iply of oysters definitely can be increased not only through more intensive 

 harvesting of vrild types but also by oyster culture. 



It must be pointed out, however, that the foregoing statements are based primarily 

 on indications. To determine accurately the extent of these resources, ccmmercial explo- 

 ration is necessary and the use of an experimental fishing vessel highly desirable. 



Potential Market 



Cuba has a tremendous potential market for fish products not only within the Republic 

 but also in the United States. In addition, Haiti and other West Indies localities can 

 readily assimilate great quantities of fishery products. 



With little additional effort, Cuba can produce a variety of products for export. 

 Adequate quick-freezing apparatus is novj available in Cuba and frozen fillets of preferred 

 types can be produced in large quantities if the raw materials are furnished in a regular 

 volume. Y.'ith the improvement of the shipping situation, there are many markets available 

 for this type of product. In addition, frozen lobster tails have already proved profitable 

 on the U. S. market. This can certainly be revived and probably increased. 



The canneries in Cuba can turn out at least A.0,000 cases -of excellent, canned, fishery 

 products per year. The production to date has been chiefly of tuna and lobster. The con- 

 tinuation of this industry is highly desirable in order to supply not only the demands of 

 the Cuban markets, but also the demands of export markets. 



Ttie salting of fish is another field which should be entered into, but, in this case, 

 new fisliing techniques vdll have to be developed to supply the necessary raw materials at 

 a reasonable price. There are many species of fish which lend themselves to salting. 

 Some of these varieties are to be found in Cuban waters. The chief consideration to be 

 borne in mind is that to be successful, the salt-fish industries must have access to large 

 quantities of cheaply-p]X)duced fish; othenvise, the finished product will be too expensive 

 to enter ccanpetitive markets. 



After the liar, Cuba may be able to find extensive uses for some of the unused fishery 

 resources. Here, the migratory fishes also present the greatest possibilities. Biese fish 

 will be adaptable to frozen- and fresh- fish marketing and export if refrigeration facilities 

 are available to hold them. Some may be canned for Cuban and other markets. Some may be 

 suitable for salting. Other industries, such as shark fishing, clajmning, suid turtle fishing; 

 may be enlarged. 



GAME FISHING 



The place of salt-water game fishing in the future of Cuba should not be minimized in 

 planning for Cuba's future. As in the United States, species suitable for game fishing can 

 be used for both commerce and sport. Cuba has rich supplies of fish off both north and 



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