Aquaculture continues to be the fastest-growing animal food producing sector in the world. In the period 1970 - 2008, aquaculture production increased at an average annual growth rate of 8.3%, and is currently responsible for more than half of the global seafood supply. Estimated global production of food fish from aquaculture, including finfish, crustaceans, mollusks and other aquatic animals for human consumption, was nearly 74 million metric tons in 2014.
The Asia–Pacific region continues to dominate the aquaculture sector, accounting for approximately 89% of global production in 2014. Eleven of the top 15 aquaculture producing countries are in the Asia-Pacific region, with China dominating and responsible for more than 60% of global production.
The Top 10 aquaculture producing countries as of 2014 are as follows:
Given that yields from capture fisheries are at maximum yields and global population growth continues to rise, aquaculture is believed to be one of the most viable options available to increase global production of seafood. Sustainable aquaculture also plays an important role in improving food security in many less developed countries where fish is frequently the most important source of protein. Sustainable aquaculture development has also made positive contributions to local, national, and regional economies.
Global population is currently 7.3 billion people. Per capita consumption of seafood from all sources (capture fisheries and aquaculture) was estimated at 20.1 kg annually in 2014. The United Nations is forecasting global population will increase to 9.7 billion people by 2050. Due to heavy fishing pressure, the contribution from capture fisheries has remained constant at around 90 million tons for the past twenty years and is not expected to increase. The global aquaculture industry will therefore need to be responsible for producing more than 102 million metric tons annually by 2050 just to maintain the current per capita consumption rate of 20.1 kg. In other words, the global aquaculture industry will need to be producing 28 million metric tons more per year in 2050 relative to current levels of annual production. We believe it is achievable, but it must be done responsibly and sustainably.
Prospects for continued fast growth of the global aquaculture industry are indeed bright, but there are many challenges that must be overcome. If these challenges can be met head-on, the aquaculture industry will maintain its fast rate of growth and will continue to be one of the most important sources of protein in the entire world.
So please, join us and become a part of the blue revolution. The world is counting on you!
