FAO Forecasts Global Aquaculture to Contribute 59% of Total Fish Consumption by 2030

by Fishery News

At the Global Fisheries Conference India 2023, Simon Feunge-Smith, Senior Fishery Officer at the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO), emphasized the urgent need for increased blue finance to drive innovation and development within the aquaculture sector. Amidst climate change challenges and rising demands for food security, Feunge-Smith stressed the crucial role of strategic investments and technological advancements in ensuring the sustainable growth of the aquaculture industry.

Global aquaculture is anticipated to supply 59% of the fish consumed by humans by 2030, according to Feunge-Smith. He urged for the adoption of aquaculture systems with a low carbon footprint and high nutritional value, emphasizing that technological advancements and strategic investments are vital for the sector’s sustainable growth.

Over the last 25 years, the global blue sector has undergone significant transformation, witnessing a 37% increase in per capita fish consumption and a remarkable 250% rise in aquaculture production. Asia, contributing 89% of global aquaculture production (82 million tonnes), plays a pivotal role in this growth. The aquaculture sector not only serves as a primary food supplier but also generates substantial employment, providing jobs for over 20.5 million people.

In the technical session ‘Emerging Challenges and Opportunities in Inland Aquaculture,’ experts delved into a detailed analysis, highlighting the need for collaboration and knowledge exchange among stakeholders. The session also addressed the impact of climate change on aquaculture, discussing challenges such as unprecedented rainfall, flooding of culture ponds, droughts, and increased disease incidences.

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