INTRODUCTION The launch of microfinance in Yemen was intended to spur development in the Arab world’s least developed country. Following the unification of Yemen in 1990, the government faced perennial fiscal constraints, as the majority of the state budget was allocated to salaries for military personnel and subsidies for fuel and food. Lack of funds for public spending, along with ineffective governance and law enforcement systems, prevented the implementation of state-led

EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The fishing industry in Yemen faces many structural challenges that have limited its production and potential contribution to overall economic output. Development of the industry’s infrastructure, human capacity and regulation was already poor prior to the outbreak of the ongoing armed conflict in Yemen. Since the war began five years ago the fishing industry has faced increased challenges, including a significant drop in the level of production with the dis