Fish traders in Mombasa.[Photo/Nation]
Fish traders in Mombasa have raised concerns over the rising importation of fish from China.
Wholesalers are crying foul, saying importers are selling tilapia from the Asian country directly to retailers at cheap prices.
According to traders, the move is depriving them of customers.
“Customers who used to buy from us are gone. Majengo was the only central place for fish retailers, but since these cartels invaded the market with cheap prices, we no longer get customers,” said Mr Nobert Otieno, a wholesaler.
Speaking to business daily, Otieno said some colleagues had closed shop and sought alternative work.
“Work is not profitable. Recently, I could open my shop at 4am but today 7am is too early because we have very few customers,” he added.
Tilapia from China trades at Sh150 to Sh300 a kg , while the Kenyan variety goes for Sh400. Nile Perch (Mbuta) fetches Sh320 a kg. Una from China dominates three quarters of the market.