A leading jellyfish factory in Bahrain has doubled its output as it strives to meet worldwide demand for the delicacy.

The Jaradah Sea Production Factory in Janusan was set up in 2003 at a cost of around BD300,000 ($795,597), to produce dried jellyfish for export across Asia.

It now produces around 30,000 tonnes of frozen fish and dried jellyfish, up from 15,000 tonnes when the company was launched.

The growth follows an increase in the number of its clients, which has now reached seven Asian and Middle Eastern countries.

"The factory is now exporting goods to more countries," said owner Hassan Janusani.

"Malaysia and Taiwan have now become customers of the factory, along with Japan, Korea, China, Thailand and Egypt."

The factory employs 200 people, including 50 Bahrainis, to meet demand. "As production increased, we needed more employees," he said.

Janusani revealed he plans to open a second branch if demand for its products continues to grow. "If demand keeps increasing, we might establish a second branch," he said.

"We are currently renting three plots of land to host the business."

The factory now operates year-round after previously only being active during jellyfish season, which runs from April to September.

Its products also include frozen crabs and squid as well as canned goods.

The company pays local fishermen for jellyfish they catch and dries them for export, shelling out around BD3 for every 40kg to 50kg of jellyfish received.

Janusani, a former fisherman, earlier called for Bahrain's leadership to back his factory, saying it had the potential to create jobs for unemployed Bahrainis, help beleaguered fishermen and give Bahrain's seafood production worldwide attention.

Mr Janusani is also still seeking the help of private investors to improve the factory, which was set up with the backing of the fisheries directorate.-TradeArabia News Service