From ocean to markets: fish exports threaten nutrition security in coastal communities

Decreasing fish catch threatens the food security and livelihoods of coral reef–dependent communities. However, coastal food systems are too often managed through the narrow lens of fish production, while accessibility also matters. Here, using small-scale fishery, socioeconomic, and interview data from five coastal districts of Palawan, Philippines, we show that fish consumption—an important driver of nutrition security, since energy, protein, and micronutrient intakes depend on the amount and type of fish consumed by residents—is not correlated with production, as a large share of the catch is exported, particularly reef fish. Pelagic and soft-bottom–associated species, on the other hand, are less frequently exported, cheaper, and locally preferred, making them a vital food safety net. We suggest that coral reef fisheries and blue food management should take into account species differences and post-harvest processes to ensure more equitable food outcomes for coastal communities. Maximising production in coral reef fisheries supports higher exports rather than enhanced local consumption of nutritious fresh fish, according to an analysis of fisheries data, export estimates, and nutritional data for five coastal districts in Palawan, Philippines.