The Equatoguinean government requested, on 5 November, that preparations be made for marketing the products of the Annobón fish processing plant. Meeting in Malabo under Vice-President Nguema Obiang Mangue, the executive wants to organise its meeting with the country’s wholesalers and distributors.
This step comes a few days after the plant was inaugurated. The government report sets a concrete economic goal: supplying the domestic market and gradually recovering the investment. The commercial presentation is meant to allow buyers to discover the products, taste them and place their orders.
Sales prices expected
The Prime Minister, the ministries of Fisheries and of Commerce, and the company in charge of the project are to present a price list the following week. The authorities want to allow traders to offer the products on competitive terms.
The orders collected are also to be used to determine the level of activity needed to meet demand. Profitability and the continuity of operations therefore remain objectives to be built, after delivery of the industrial equipment.
A processing plant supported during start-up
Spanish contractor Pesconor designed and equipped the plant. In an article published on 5 November, the trade journal ARAL describes a 2,000-square-metre facility including cold rooms and areas for preparing, cooking, sterilising and packaging fish.
The equipment also includes a facility for converting fish waste into animal feed. Supply was integrated into the project with fishing boats, while technicians and sailors received training in Spain and on the island.
Beyond canned fish, jams are expected to make use of the island’s fruit during periods of low fishing. According to ARAL, Pesconor is to temporarily retain management of the plant after handing it over to the government, in order to pass on its experience of start-up, planning and operation.