FOREIGN TRADE 



El Salvador import aiid. export statistics do not list shrimp 

 as a separate item. The amount of shriitip imported is relatively unim- 

 portant. Exports are estimated to be 600 to 800 pounds of whole fresh 

 shrimp a month to Honduras and a like amount of frozen headless to 

 Guatemala. 



There are no export duties on fishery products, but one, and 

 sometimes two, types of specific import duties apply. All shrimp are 

 subject to a general import duty and those packed in vinegar are also 

 subject to a preferential duty. The duties are based on 220 pounds, 

 gross weight. For fresh, frozen, or dried shrimp the general duty is 

 $35. For shrimp pastes and for shrimp canned in oil, sauce, or brine 

 the duty is $5l.U0. Pickled shrimp carry a general duty of $51.iiO and 

 a preferential duty of $29.29 for freight shipments and $i;2.26 for 

 parcel -post shipments. 



GOVERNIffiNTAL ASSISTANCE 



The Government of El Salvador has been encouraging the develop- 

 ment of the fishing industry by several means. A cooperative fishing 

 colony comprising 25 families has been started near La Union. The govern- 

 ment, among other things, provides housing, lights, and teachers. 



The policy of encouraging industry also applies to fish canneries 

 and other fish-processing plants. For stipulated periods such companies 

 are given exemptions from import duties on certain materials and supplies 

 and exemption or reduction on certain taxes. 23/ At least 50 percent 

 of the capital of the companies must be native. Fishing within 12 miles 

 of the coast is reserved for boats of Salvadoran registry belonging to 

 Salvadorans or to companies that are at least 50 percent Salvadoran- 

 Oimed. 



23/ Legislative Decree 661 of May 22, 1952. Published in Diario 

 0?icial 102; Vol. 155; May 30, 1952; and Article 19 of the Fishery 

 Law, Decree No. I96I. 



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