Washington: Aquaculture is emerging as a pivotal player in addressing global food security, economic growth, and environmental sustainability. It is currently the fastest-growing food production sector, providing the majority of the world’s seafood supply.
According to World Bank, aquaculture holds the potential to create up to 22 million new jobs by 2050, contingent upon stakeholders leveraging the $1.5 trillion investment opportunity in the sector over the same period. The report draws insights from seven well-established aquaculture industries worldwide, including Bangladesh, Chile, China, Ecuador, Egypt, Thailand, and Vietnam, highlighting how financial mechanisms and the evolving roles of public and private sectors influence future investments in sustainable aquaculture.
The analysis points to a significant shift required in aquaculture from small-scale operations to more intensive production, facilitated by innovative financing, particularly in emerging markets. This transition is necessary to help small-scale farmers enhance productivity through improved farming practices.
The report reveals that aquaculture is transitioning from a niche to a mainstream investment strategy, offering diversification and promising long-term returns. A standard growth forecast anticipates an additional 60 million metric tons of aquaculture production annually over the next 25 years, while a scenario involving targeted investments projects an increase of 97 million metric tons annually in the same timeframe.
Leading global aquaculture industries demonstrate robust returns by concentrating on specific markets, with Ecuador excelling in shrimp, Chile in salmon, and Vietnam in Pangasius. In contrast, China and Bangladesh focus on domestic markets with Carp and Black Tiger Shrimp, respectively.
Furthermore, the report underscores the crucial role of public-private partnerships and development finance in scaling sustainable aquaculture and mitigating investor risks. Governments, development finance institutions, and private investors, including philanthropies and concessional investors, are identified as key players in this endeavor.
Green finance is also transforming the investment landscape, with sustainability-linked loans and blue bonds unlocking capital for responsible aquaculture growth.