Latest news with #RodrigoGallardo
Malay Mail
13 hours ago
- General
- Malay Mail
Missing merluza: Chile's battle to save its favourite catch
CHILE, June 8 — Before setting sail for the South Pacific, Chilean fisherman Rodrigo Gallardo blesses himself to invoke heavenly protection and luck in his pursuit of an increasingly elusive catch: hake. Strong winds make for a choppy seven-nautical-mile (13 kilometer) voyage from the port of Valparaiso to deep waters that decades ago were teeming with Chile's favorite fish. But several hours later, when Gallardo reels in a longline studded with sardines (these small fry are used as bait) just a single hake has bitten. 'In the past, the hold was completely full,' the 46-year-old lamented. The South Pacific hake, or merluccius gayi, provides a living for some 4,000 small-scale fishermen in Chile, a country with over 6,000 kilometers of coastline, which has a voracious appetite for 'merluza'. But the attraction for cod's more affordable cousin is proving fatal. Along central Chile's traditional fishing heartland, more and more boats are returning to port with empty holds as overfishing and climate change decimate hake stocks. In the past two decades, Chile's hake population has declined by 70 per cent according to the Fisheries Development Institute (IFOP). Gallardo, 46, blames years of regulations that benefitted commercial 'bottom' trawlers, which use drag nets to scoop up huge amounts of deep-water fish, like hake, depleting ocean stocks. Commercial fisheries, for their part, blame illegal fishing by small-scale fishermen like Gallardo. Regulations fall short Chile has been fighting a high stakes battle against overfishing for years. With several species in severe decline by the early 2010s, from hake to jack mackerel and jumbo squid, the government introduced annual biomass (weight) quotas designed to determine sustainable fishing levels. Chile also designated over 40 per cent of its waters as Marine Protected Areas, where fishing is restricted, and signed up to the United Nations High Seas Treaty on protecting marine biodiversity. A decade on, the populations of some species, such as sardines, cuttlefish and horse mackerel — Chile's biggest fish export — have begun to recover. The hake numbers, however, continue to make for grim reading. An IFOP study from 2024 showed a 17 per cent drop in the biomass of hake stocks compared to the previous year. Drop in the ocean Rodrigo Catalan, conservation director of the Chilean chapter of the World Wildlife Fund, blames a mix of 'illegal fishing, over-exploitation and climate change' for making hake increasingly scarce. In 2023, authorities seized 58 tons of illegal hake, the second-largest seizure by species after anchovies. The authorities suspect it's just a drop in the ocean. Because hake is usually caught close to shore, it's easy to quickly reel it in without being noticed. Much of the illegal catch winds up for sale in small quantities on markets, which also makes it difficult to detect, according to the National Fisheries Service. Experts say climate change is also wreaking havoc with fish stocks. Alicia Gallardo, a researcher at the University of Chile, said that rising sea temperatures was causing hake to migrate further south in search of colder currents, and was also affecting reproduction rates. Too many nets, too few fish Having to share an ever-shrinking catch — the annual quota for hake now stands at 35,000 tons, down from 118,000 in 2001 — has caused tempers in Chile to flare. 'There aren't enough fish for so many fishermen,' Liesbeth van der Meer, director of the ocean conservation NGO Oceana remarked. Small-scale fishermen in Valparaiso clashed with police during three days of protests in March over delays in adopting a bill that boosted their share of the catch quota for hake, among other species. Chile's biggest commercial fishery PacificBlu threatened to close shop, with the loss of 3,200 jobs, if its share was cut but later revoked the threat. The bill, which increases the quota for artisanal fishing from 40 per cent to 45 per cent, was finally adopted by the Senate this week. — AFP
Yahoo
2 days ago
- General
- Yahoo
Missing merluza: Chile's battle to save its favorite catch
Before setting sail for the South Pacific, Chilean fisherman Rodrigo Gallardo blesses himself to invoke heavenly protection and luck in his pursuit of an increasingly elusive catch: hake. Strong winds make for a choppy seven-nautical-mile (13 kilometer) voyage from the port of Valparaiso to deep waters that decades ago were teeming with Chile's favorite fish. But several hours later, when Gallardo reels in a longline studded with sardines (these small fry are used as bait) just a single hake has bitten. "In the past, the hold was completely full," the 46-year-old lamented. The South Pacific hake, or merluccius gayi, provides a living for some 4,000 small-scale fishermen in Chile, a country with over 6,000 kilometers of coastline, which has a voracious appetite for "merluza." But the attraction for cod's more affordable cousin is proving fatal. Along central Chile's traditional fishing heartland, more and more boats are returning to port with empty holds as overfishing and climate change decimate hake stocks. In the past two decades, Chile's hake population has declined by 70 percent according to the Fisheries Development Institute (IFOP). Gallardo, 46, blames years of regulations that benefitted commercial "bottom" trawlers, which use drag nets to scoop up huge amounts of deep-water fish, like hake, depleting ocean stocks. Commercial fisheries, for their part, blame illegal fishing by small-scale fishermen like Gallardo. - Regulations fall short - Chile has been fighting a high stakes battle against overfishing for years. With several species in severe decline by the early 2010s, from hake to jack mackerel and jumbo squid, the government introduced annual biomass (weight) quotas designed to determine sustainable fishing levels. Chile also designated over 40 percent of its waters as Marine Protected Areas, where fishing is restricted, and signed up to the United Nations High Seas Treaty on protecting marine biodiversity. A decade on, the populations of some species, such as sardines, cuttlefish and horse mackerel -- Chile's biggest fish export -- have begun to recover. The hake numbers, however, continue to make for grim reading. An IFOP study from 2024 showed a 17 percent drop in the biomass of hake stocks compared to the previous year. - Drop in the ocean - Rodrigo Catalan, conservation director of the Chilean chapter of the World Wildlife Fund, blames a mix of "illegal fishing, over-exploitation and climate change" for making hake increasingly scarce. In 2023, authorities seized 58 tons of illegal hake, the second-largest seizure by species after anchovies. The authorities suspect it's just a drop in the ocean. Because hake is usually caught close to shore, it's easy to quickly reel it in without being noticed. Much of the illegal catch winds up for sale in small quantities on markets, which also makes it difficult to detect, according to the National Fisheries Service. Experts say climate change is also wreaking havoc with fish stocks. Alicia Gallardo, a researcher at the University of Chile, said that rising sea temperatures was causing hake to migrate further south in search of colder currents, and was also affecting reproduction rates. - Too many nets, too few fish - Having to share an ever-shrinking catch -- the annual quota for hake now stands at 35,000 tons, down from 118,000 in 2001 -- has caused tempers in Chile to flare. "There aren't enough fish for so many fishermen," Liesbeth van der Meer, director of the ocean conservation NGO Oceana remarked. Small-scale fishermen in Valparaiso clashed with police during three days of protests in March over delays in adopting a bill that boosted their share of the catch quota for hake, among other species. Chile's biggest commercial fishery PacificBlu threatened to close shop, with the loss of 3,200 jobs, if its share was cut but later revoked the threat. The bill, which increases the quota for artisanal fishing from 40 percent to 45 percent, was finally adopted by the Senate this week. pa/cb/bgs
Associated Press
10-04-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Xebra Brands Launches National RFP to Establish Cannabis Cultivation Partnerships Across Mexico
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / April 10, 2025 / Xebra Brands Ltd. ('Xebra' or the 'Company') (CSE:XBRA)(OTCQB:XBRAF)(FSE:9YC0), a trailblazer in the Mexican cannabis sector and the sole company legally permitted to cultivate, manufacture, operate, and sell cannabis (-1% THC) in Mexico, is excited to announce the launch of a formal Request for Proposal (RFP) process. This initiative seeks to form 5 to 12 agricultural partnerships with companies and authorities across diverse growing regions in Mexico to cultivate cannabis under federal authorization. A National Call for Cannabis Cultivation Partners Xebra continues to progress on the legal groundwork while moving into commercial execution, the Company is issuing a public call for proposals from experienced agricultural companies, landowners, and municipal entities with the capability and interest to partner on cannabis cultivation projects. These joint initiatives will mark the first wave of federally compliant cannabis farming operations in the country. 'Entering commercial operations marks a historic milestone for Xebra and for the cannabis industry in Mexico,' said Rodrigo Gallardo, Interim CEO of Xebra Brands. 'By launching this RFP, we are not only opening the door for regional growers to participate in a federally licensed and structured cannabis market-we are laying the groundwork for a transformative new chapter in the country's agricultural economy.' RFP Overview and Timeline The RFP will remain open from June 1, 2025 until August 31, 2025. Proposals will be reviewed through a structured evaluation process, with selected partners announced in fall 2025. The RFP submission package outlines all requirements and evaluation criteria, which include: Driving Forward a Legal Cannabis Economy This initiative represents the first economic agricultural call-to-action under Mexico's federal cannabis framework, solidifying Xebra's leadership in the space and laying the groundwork for a thriving, legally compliant cannabis economy. About Xebra Brands: Xebra Brands Ltd. is a global cannabis company focused on the development and commercialization of cannabis-based products and assets. In Mexico, Xebra holds the only full federal authorization to legally cultivate, process, and sell cannabis (-1% THC). The Company is committed to building a national network of compliant cultivation partners and introducing high-quality cannabis products to both domestic and international markets. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD: Rodrigo Gallardo Interim CEO For more information contact: 1(888) XEBRA 88 Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains certain 'forward-looking information' and 'forward-looking statements', as such terms are defined under applicable securities laws (collectively, 'forward-looking statements'). Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words and phrases such as 'plans', 'expects' ,"is expected', 'budget', 'scheduled,' 'estimates', 'forecasts', 'intends', 'anticipates' or 'believes' or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results 'may', 'could', 'would', 'might' or 'will' be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements herein include, but are not limited to, statements with respect Strategy 2025 and the Company's growth strategy into the CBD market, the roadmap to accelerate growth in the North American CBD market, the Company's expected growth pillars of Cultivation, Manufacturing and Retail and the planned business activities under each such pillar, that the Company is actively seeking to amend current provisions under the Company's Mexican cultivation licences that limit cultivation scale, the aim to collaborate with major agricultural institutions in Mexico for large-scale, low-cost outdoor cannabis cultivation, expectations with respect to the Company's legal proceedings in Mexico, including the results and timing thereof, the expectation that Chapingo University will initiate pilot projects once confined site approval is granted, the anticipation for the importation process the two CBD products, which were manufactured in partnership with Restorative Botanicals, to be completed by April 2025 and the expectation for launch shortly thereafter, the Company's plans for e-commerce partnerships with Amazon Mexico and Mercado Libre is Mexico and the intention to leveraging expertise from a major U.S. e-commerce partner for market expansion and that the Company is seeking partnerships with CBD brands and that such partnerships may expedite the Company's path to self-sustainability. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond Xebra's ability to predict or control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Specific reference is made to Xebra's most recent annual management discussion and analysis on file with certain Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements, which include, without limitation, the inability of Xebra to retain the authorizations granted by COFEPRIS, the inability to successfully complete financings on terms acceptable to Xebra or at all, the inability to generate sufficient revenues or to raise sufficient funds to carry out its business plan; changes in government legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in various countries; risks associated with agriculture and cultivation activities generally, including inclement weather, access to supply of seeds, poor crop yields, and spoilage; compliance with import and export laws of various countries; significant fluctuations in cannabis prices and transportation costs; the risk of obtaining necessary licenses and permits; inability to identify, negotiate and complete potential acquisitions, dispositions or joint ventures for any reason; the ability to retain key employees; dependence on third parties for services and supplies; non-performance by contractual counter-parties; general economic conditions; the continued growth in global demand for cannabis products and the continued increase in jurisdictions legalizing cannabis; and the timely receipt of regulatory approvals for license applications on terms satisfactory to Xebra. In addition, there is no assurance Xebra will: be a low-cost producer or exporter; obtain a dominant market position in any jurisdiction; have products that will be unique. The foregoing list is not exhaustive and Xebra undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of the foregoing except as required by law. Many of these uncertainties and contingencies could affect Xebra's actual performance and cause its actual performance to differ materially from what has been expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, Xebra. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and readers should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those set out in such statements.
Associated Press
26-03-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
BSK Holdings Inc and Xebra Expand Partnership to Launch Elements Products in the United States
VANCOUVER, BC / ACCESS Newswire / March 26, 2025 / Xebra Brands Ltd. ('Xebra' or the 'Company') (CSE:XBRA)(OTCQB:XBRAF)(FSE:9YC0), a pioneer in the Mexican cannabis market and exclusive holder of cannabis (-1% THC) commercialization rights in Mexico, is and BSK Holdings Inc. ('BSK'), are pleased to announce the expansion of the partnership to include the launch of Elements branded CBD products in the United States. The move into the U.S. market represents a significant next step for the Elements brand, and an expansion into the largest hemp and CBD market in the world. BSK has a proven track record of building and scaling brands in the U.S. market which will allow Xebra to tap into an established network and infrastructure. BSK's proven online sales ecosystem, supported by an in-house team of digital marketers, operations specialists, fulfillment partners, manufacturing capabilities, and executives who have built some of the most successful CBD brands in the space and created over $100M in revenue across their brands over the last 5 years. BSK's brands reach millions of consumers every year along with a strong track record in direct-to-consumer marketing, subscription-based sales, and national retail partnerships. Xebra aims to leverage this expertise, to develop a list of initial SKUs and products to launch into key regional markets where consumer interest in premium wellness CBD products continues to see strong demand. Over the coming fiscal quarter, BSKwill work with Xebra to identify key products, secure manufacturing and distribution partners, develop a market entry and launch plan, marketing strategy, US payment and banking partners, and assist Xebra to develop an E-commerce direct-to-consumer website for the Elements brand. The U.S. CBD market remains one of the largest and most mature globally, with revenue exceeding USD $5 billion in 2024, and projected to grow at a CAGR of 15% through 2030. BSK plans to position Elements in both wellness and active lifestyle verticals, tapping into existing consumer segments familiar with CBD as part of their daily routines. This move also signals continued alignment between Xebra and BSK as they work together to maximize the reach of the Elements brand across North America. While Xebra remains focused on leading the CBD market in Mexico, diversifying into the U.S, complements a broader vision to establish Elements as a trusted North-American CBD brand. 'We're incredibly encouraged by BSK's commitment to the Elements brand and their roadmap to scale it across the U.S.,' commented Rodrigo Gallardo, Interim CEO of Xebra Brands. 'This step represents continued momentum and validates our belief that Elements can compete and succeed in top-tier CBD markets.' About Xebra Brands Xebra Brands is a leading cannabis company dedicated to providing high-quality, innovative products to consumers worldwide. Xebra is a pioneer in the Mexican cannabis sector and the only company legally allowed to cultivate, manufacture, operate, and sell cannabis (-1% THC) in Mexico. About BSK Holdings Inc. BSK is a leading CBD company known for its top-selling Keoni and AMMA branded products in the U.S. market. With decades of industry experience and a proven track record of success, BSK is dedicated to providing high-quality CBD products through innovative e-commerce strategies. ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD Rodrigo Gallardo Interim CEO For more information, contact: 1 (888) XEBRA 88 [email protected] Cautionary Note Regarding Forward-Looking Statements: This news release contains certain 'forward-looking information' and 'forward-looking statements', as such terms are defined under applicable securities laws (collectively, 'forward-looking statements'). Forward-looking statements can be identified by the use of words and phrases such as 'plans', 'expects' ,"is expected', 'budget', 'scheduled,' 'estimates', 'forecasts', 'intends', 'anticipates' or 'believes' or variations (including negative variations) of such words and phrases, or state that certain actions, events or results 'may', 'could', 'would', 'might' or 'will' be taken, occur or be achieved. Forward-looking statements herein include, but are not limited to, statements with respect Strategy 2025 and the Company's growth strategy into the CBD market, the roadmap to accelerate growth in the North American CBD market, the Company's expected growth pillars of Cultivation, Manufacturing and Retail and the planned business activities under each such pillar, that the Company is actively seeking to amend current provisions under the Company's Mexican cultivation licences that limit cultivation scale, the aim to collaborate with major agricultural institutions in Mexico for large-scale, low-cost outdoor cannabis cultivation, expectations with respect to the Company's legal proceedings in Mexico, including the results and timing thereof, the expectation that Chapingo University will initiate pilot projects once confined site approval is granted, the anticipation for the importation process the two CBD products, which were manufactured in partnership with Restorative Botanicals, to be completed by April 2025 and the expectation for launch shortly thereafter, the Company's plans for e-commerce partnerships with Amazon Mexico and Mercado Libre is Mexico and the intention to leveraging expertise from a major U.S. e-commerce partner for market expansion and that the Company is seeking partnerships with CBD brands and that such partnerships may expedite the Company's path to self-sustainability. These forward-looking statements are based on current expectations and are subject to known and unknown risks, uncertainties and other factors, many of which are beyond Xebra's ability to predict or control and could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in the forward-looking statements. Specific reference is made to Xebra's most recent annual management discussion and analysis on file with certain Canadian provincial securities regulatory authorities for a discussion of some of the factors underlying forward-looking statements, which include, without limitation, the inability of Xebra to retain the authorizations granted by COFEPRIS, the inability to successfully complete financings on terms acceptable to Xebra or at all, the inability to generate sufficient revenues or to raise sufficient funds to carry out its business plan; changes in government legislation, taxation, controls, regulations and political or economic developments in various countries; risks associated with agriculture and cultivation activities generally, including inclement weather, access to supply of seeds, poor crop yields, and spoilage; compliance with import and export laws of various countries; significant fluctuations in cannabis prices and transportation costs; the risk of obtaining necessary licenses and permits; inability to identify, negotiate and complete potential acquisitions, dispositions or joint ventures for any reason; the ability to retain key employees; dependence on third parties for services and supplies; non-performance by contractual counter-parties; general economic conditions; the continued growth in global demand for cannabis products and the continued increase in jurisdictions legalizing cannabis; and the timely receipt of regulatory approvals for license applications on terms satisfactory to Xebra. In addition, there is no assurance Xebra will: be a low-cost producer or exporter; obtain a dominant market position in any jurisdiction; have products that will be unique. The foregoing list is not exhaustive and Xebra undertakes no obligation to update or revise any of the foregoing except as required by law. Many of these uncertainties and contingencies could affect Xebra's actual performance and cause its actual performance to differ materially from what has been expressed or implied in any forward-looking statements made by, or on behalf of, Xebra. Readers are cautioned that forward-looking statements are not guarantees of future performance and readers should not place undue reliance on such forward-looking statements. There can be no assurance that such statements will prove to be accurate and actual results and future events could differ materially from those set out in such statements.
