As a result of the continued and uncontrollable price increases on beef, the consumption of fresh tuna seems to be the be the best alternative for the Venezuelan consumer. The kilo price for fresh tuna steaks/and loins, after the latest price adjustment is now at Bs 4.080 per kg (USD 2,12/kg). An increase of only 680 Bolivars compared to the previous price regulation that took place in February and which was of BS 3.400 per kg (USD 1,77/kg).
According to the general opinion of the Venezuelan consumer, this increase registered on fresh tuna is more bearable than the current rates for chicken and meat found at fresh markets and supermarkets.
It’s therefore cheaper for the Venezuelan consumer to buy tuna than beef and chicken. There is also better distribution of the product towards the more populated areas.
The figures reported by the Venezuelan Association of Tuna Boatowners (Avatun) indicate that the demand of fresh tuna has increased significantly in
the last two years; a tendency that has shown grown during the first months of 2004.
Avatun also confirms the efficient supply and distribution of fish within the country as well as for export to other countries, through the fishing ports of Cumana and Punto Fijo.
The recommendation on tuna is to consume the fish as fresh as possible in order to benefit from its nutritional properties. However, there is a limitation factor for Avatun to commercialize the product in popular zones, since sales are made mainly by traveling vendors who do not have suitable refrigeration facilities. Therefore, it is convenient that the markets of the municipality and the cooperatives improve the organization of the commercial chain in popular zones.
On the other hand, Avatun emphasis the importance of consuming a product with high Omega 3 content, recommended to reduce cardiovascular risks.