This report  presents an analysis of Yemen’s fisheries market system and value chain across four coastal regions: the Red Sea, Gulf of Aden, Arabian Sea, and Al Mahrah. Implemented by UNDP under the Fishery Harbour Rehabilitation and Value Chain Development in Aden Project, the study examines the sector’s role in supporting livelihoods, food security, and exports, and economic resilience. 

The analysis highlights the continued vulnerability of fisherpersons  due to rising fuel costs, limited access to finance, unstable fish prices, declining catches, and dependence on informal credit arrangements. It also identifies key constraints affecting the sector, including inadequate cold-chain infrastructure, limited value addition, weak market diversification, declining effectiveness of fishing associations in some regions, and barriers to women's economic participation. 

Export markets continue to drive value creation in the fisheries sector, but  the industry remains vulnerable to external market shocks and regulatory changes. Most fish exports are sold with minimal processing, while opportunities for higher-value products and domestic market development remain largely untapped. The report also underscores the urgent need for sustainable fisheries management to address resource depletion, illegal fishing practices, and environmental pressures. 

The study recommends strengthening fisheries associations, expanding access to financial services, improving cold-chain and processing infrastructure, promoting sustainable fishing practices, supporting mariculture and livelihood diversification, increasing women's participation in the value chain, and enhancing value addition for both domestic and export markets. Addressing these constraints, can help Yemen unlock the potential of its fisheries sector, generate sustainable livelihoods, strengthen economic resilience, and contribute to long-term inclusive growth.