
Nauterra, a global food company specializing in marine products, has deployed its fishing vessel Montelape to the Pacific Ocean to strengthen operations at its tuna processing plant in La Unión, El Salvador. The move underscores the company’s long-term commitment to the country’s economy and sustainable fishing practices.
The Montelape, previously operating in the Atlantic, recently docked at Puerto Corsain in La Unión. It will join Nauterra’s Pacific fleet to ensure a steady supply of tuna for the Salvadoran plant, which produces canned goods for Central American and European markets.
The expansion aligns with growing international demand, supported by trade frameworks such as the European Union-Central America Association Agreement.
Boris Quintanilla, Nauterra’s Country Director for Central America and the Caribbean, emphasized the strategic decision:
We trust in the country’s investment climate, and for this reason, we have decided to relocate this vessel to the Pacific Ocean. Its purpose is to ensure the supply of raw materials that will sustain our operations. This decision responds to current growth challenges, driven by favorable conditions in El Salvador. We emphasize that this supply chain is grounded in compliance with all international sustainability standards and respect for marine life.
The La Unión facility, operational for over two decades, employs nearly 2,000 workers and relies on Nauterra’s fleet of six tuna vessels, one cargo ship, and two support boats. The Montelape joins Salvadoran-flagged ships Montelucía, Monterocío, Montecelo, and Montefrisa in supporting the company’s supply chain.
Founded in Spain in 1940, Nauterra operates in 74 countries and emphasizes eco-conscious practices across its brands, including Calvo, Gomes da Costa, and Nostromo. The company maintains production and packaging plants in Spain, Brazil, and El Salvador, employing over 5,000 people globally.
This expansion reinforces Nauterra’s role in El Salvador’s export sector while balancing economic growth with environmental responsibility.