Abstract:
Following an assessment of Mexican water resources by governmental agencies in the late 1940’s, Tabasco State was
identified as a potential area for aquaculture development, as the State holds 30% of National water resources and an
important share of Southeast Mexican fisheries, particularly for oyster production. However, conflicts and competition for
coastal resources between the expanding oil industry and fishing communities are escalating, with consequences including
severe environmental degradation. Though a number of aquaculture-linked development initiatives have been promoted,
evidence suggests that issues of social benefit, integrated development and livelihood enhancement are poorly understood.
This paper reports the findings of preliminary social and economic surveys of coastal communities engaged in aquaculture
operations, and suggests that current approaches are unlikely to deliver benefit effectively as key issues have not been
addressed. Preliminary recommendations are made based on trends and issues of particular importance to coastal
communities, to improve livelihoods through better access to resources and infrastructure.
