Charting the future of aquaculture in Asia: overcoming challenges for sustainable growth

Abstract

Asia stands at the heart of the global aquaculture revolution. According to recent FAO data, Asia produces almost 90 percent of the world's farmed aquatic animals, a figure that underscores both its importance and the scale of the challenge (FAO 2024). From the rice-fish integrated systems of Southeast Asia to the shrimp farms of South Asia to the small-scale producers across the entire region and the seaweed farms along the Pacific coast, aquaculture has become a vital source of affordable protein for local nutritional needs, rural employment and export income.