North Korea plans to boost its fishing industry through a technical training program focused on vessel repair and catch optimization, Daily NK has learned.
“Last month, South Pyongan province’s fishery management bureau ordered a training program covering technical standardization, operations efficiency, performance improvement, and inter-organizational cooperation. These sessions are expected to begin shortly,” a source in the province told Daily NK on Monday.
The training program aims to help fishing companies under the provincial bureau meet the ruling party’s catch targets, with a particular focus on vessel repair techniques and operational methods. A key component will be training on expedited winter repairs.
“Beyond repair and management instruction, the bureau plans to use these sessions to evaluate maintenance equipment conditions and assess each company’s winterization preparations,” the source said.
Given winter’s unique challenges to fishing operations, the bureau intends to emphasize technical training and preventive measures. The program also aims to improve repair efficiency through automation.
The training will address seafood storage and distribution network management as companies explore undeveloped waters to increase their catch. The bureau views this as an opportunity to evaluate each company’s capacity for increased production.
However, officials at fishing companies are doubtful whether training sessions will lead to an increase in fishing output given the shortage of everything — including equipment for repairs and maintenance, tools needed for catching fish, and fuel for their vessels.
“To increase catches, you need reliable vessels, adequate fuel, and proper fishing equipment. Company officials question whether technical education alone, without addressing these supply shortages, will make a meaningful difference,” the source said.
January 08, 2025 at 12:04PM
by DailyNK(North Korean Media)