Abstract

This review examines the status of fish quality control systems and food safety standards in Somalia between 2015 and 2024, with emphasis on post-harvest handling, cold-chain infrastructure, institutional governance, and compliance with international standards such as HACCP, ISO 22000, and the Codex Alimentarius. The study adopts a descriptive, cross-sectional review approach using secondary data, policy frameworks, institutional reports, and development partner documentation. Findings indicate that, despite Somalia’s strategic geographic position and vast Exclusive Economic Zone, the fisheries sector remains dominated by artisanal production systems with inadequate preservation technologies, weak cold-chain coverage, and post-harvest losses estimated at 20–40%. Most landing sites lack basic sanitary facilities, clean water, and ice supply, increasing risks of microbial contamination and reducing product shelf life. Institutional fragmentation between federal and state authorities, limited inspection capacity, insufficient accredited laboratories, and low levels of HACCP/ISO certification further constrain export competitiveness, particularly in accessing EU and Gulf markets. While ongoing initiatives by FAO, the World Bank, and other partners have introduced infrastructure upgrades and training programs, sustainable sectoral transformation requires long-term investment, coordinated governance, digital traceability systems, and a centralised national food safety authority. Strengthening quality assurance and cold-chain systems is therefore essential not only for public health, but also for trade competitiveness and realization of Somalia’s Blue Economy potential.