Peru, the world's largest producer of anchoveta, saw catches in May 2026 drop to 32,800 tons compared to 1.3 million tons in May 2025. ^[1] The National Fisheries Society warned that industrial anchoveta fishing in Peru is experiencing a severe blow due to El Niño warming in the Pacific Ocean. ^[2] Jessica Luna, president of the National Fisheries Society, stated that the fishing sector and its derived industries contributed 2.1% to Peru's GDP in 2025 but are projected to contribute only 1.1% this year. ^[3] The fishing activity normally generates 250,000 jobs, but 122,000 of these positions are expected to be lost between this year and the next. ^[4] Ecuadorian President Daniel Noboa declared on Monday that strengthening prevention and preparedness actions against the possible effects of El Niño is a national priority. ^[5] Experts anticipate that the active El Niño phenomenon will impact rainfall and temperatures across different parts of Argentina, with a potential scenario of exceptional intensity known as 'Super Niño'. ^[6] Iván Aguilar, humanitarian manager for Central America at Oxfam, told the AP agency that the phenomenon is causing a severe crisis in the region, resulting in the loss of nearly 100% of food production. ^[7]