Report names three drivers of aquaculture growth

Liza Mayer  September 21, 2018  

Aquaculture can grow by another $100 billion in less than a decade if three key challenges are addressed -- genetics, new husbandry technologies, and innovations in aquafeed, says Rabobank.

Citing the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization’s (FAO) biennial report, The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture, Rabobank says aquaculture production reached $232 billion in first-value sales in 2016, which represents a growth of $100 billion from 2010.

The Dutch bank believes that another $100 billion can be achieved in less than a decade through modernization and professionalization of aquaculture, “while maintaining a strong respect for the environment and local communities.”

“Switching to more technology-driven and efficient intensive farming technologies has enabled fish farmers to increase production in the last few years. Improved genetics, new husbandry technologies, and innovations in aquafeed will be the three key factors determining aquaculture’s future,” it said.

Switching to more technology-driven and efficient intensive farming technologies were key to boosting production in recent years