Attitudes towards fish consumption and Farming: Reducing Reliance on Imported Fish

Abstract

The purpose of this research was to investigate the attitudes of Saudi households in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) towards fish consumption and fish farming. The study was conducted in the Jizan province of KSA and data was collected through a well-structured questionnaire from 100 participants. The Pearson Correlation Coefficient was used to determine the significance of the two variables. The findings revealed that the majority of the respondents (37%) were aged between 25 and 34 and had a high level of education (35% up to the university level). Most respondents (31%) consumed fish and were aware of its nutritional value, although the majority (85%) were dissatisfied with the price. None of the participants engaged in fish farming, and most (83%) had no intention of doing so in the future. In conclusion, the study found that fish consumption and preference were high in the Jizan province, with fish being preferred over chicken and meat due to its nutritional value. However, age and education level had a negative impact on respondents' opinions of fish prices. The study recommends the development of policies to educate people about fish farming, specifically through fisheries extension services, in order to enhance interest and participation in this activity.