Is marine fish farming a way for economic development in the French overseas territories?

Résumé En

Following the introduction of the red drum Sciaenops ocellatus in the early 80_s in the Caribbean island La Martinique, farming techniques were set up and a small farming sector developed. The introduction of that fish species in Indian Ocean islands, la Réunion and Mayotte, allowed to start fish farming with various scales, from small size to semi-industrial scale. Through an analysis of the available information related to natural and socio-economic conditions, technical and economical results, domestic and export markets, organization of the sector, the possible development of fish farming in these three French overseas territories is questioned. A SWOT analysis is proposed and allows to precise the situation, strategies and needs of economic information for further development in the three zones. One critical issue concerns the marketing of red drum to both local and international markets. The role played by such an aquaculture industry is questioned in relation to different stakes ; local development, food security, environmental concerns, context of international trade. The limits in present knowledge and experiences are pointed and recommendations proposed for future studies.