Aquaculture

The catch harvested from wild ocean fisheries is nearing the limit for the maximum global catch.

Approximately 61 per cent of global marine fish populations are fully exploited while roughly 29 per cent are over-exploited. Only 10 per cent of marine fish resources remain unexploited (2011).

The aquaculture sector is now the fastest growing food-producing sector. Today it contributes almost half the world’s food fish.

Aquaculture’s potential in individual countries depends on several factors. Robust institutions and a reliable regulatory framework must be in place. Natural factors such as clean water and a good flow-through system are decisive. Access to high-quality spawn, feed and suitable locations are of fundamental importance for the development of an aquaculture sector.

Provision of food for more people

In 2012 aquaculture accounted for 42 per cent of all fish used as food globally. In 2000 the share was 26 per cent and in 1990 it stood at 13 per cent (Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA) 2014).

There is still potential to increase aquaculture globally.

The aquaculture sector is dominated by Asia which accounts for 90 per cent (2012) of global production in terms of quantity. China is the largest producer.

Africa as a whole contributes only two per cent (2012) of the global production of farmed fish.

Many areas of Africa have a natural potential for development. However, development of the aquaculture sector has been very slow, and has increased by 12 per cent since 2000.

Both marine and freshwater aquaculture can help to put food on the table for a greater number of people, as well as providing higher incomes for local fish farmers and for the country as a whole.

• Read more about aquaculture globally in the State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2014

Environmental problems

The huge expansion in aquaculture internationally has led to a number of environmental problems, including waste, escapes and use of drugs and chemicals.

Considerable attention internationally is directed to fish welfare and fish diseases. Fish farmers can experience big losses if their facility is struck by disease. Markets demand a focus on fish health and environmental impacts in export products. Aquaculture is also affected by local environmental conditions.

Aquaculture production in Asia in particular is considerable. Negative environmental impacts and poor fish health may have major consequences. Norwegian support therefore focuses on reducing the vulnerability of this business sector to such risks.

Norwegian aquaculture expertise

Norway has become an important player internationally in the aquaculture industry. There is growing interest from developing countries that want help to establish their own aquaculture industry.

Norway provides assistance to develop the aquaculture industry in a sustainable manner.

Norwegian aquaculture has developed through a close interaction between the private sector, the central government and research.

Norwegian aquaculture species are not relevant in the majority of developing countries. Nonetheless, a sound regulatory framework, diagnostic methods, research methods, genetics, development of fish feed and other research-based methods and knowledge are important tools. Norway can provide expertise in these fields.

Adopting an active approach to these problems is crucial. Norway has developed a regulatory framework, methods and guidelines in an effort to reduce environmental impacts.

What is Norway doing?

Norwegian aid to aquaculture is provided via multilateral organizations, bilateral cooperation, NGOs and commercial business partnerships.

Aquaculture today is an important area of collaboration with for example Vietnam, Thailand, Indonesia, China, Malaysia, Mozambique and Cuba.

Many poor people in these countries depend on aquaculture for their livelihood.

Below are some examples of Norwegian aid to aquaculture:

• Vulnerability analyses of aquaculture in relation to climate change in various regions worldwide are supported via the FAO.
• The Royal Norwegian Society for Development has received support for the development of aquaculture in East Africa, with a focus on Madagascar. The development of small-scale aquaculture inland in East Timor receives support via the Norwegian Embassy in Jakarta.
• Many public actors in aquaculture quickly transfer knowledge and new technology to local fish farmers. Norad’s funding for business development has helped to develop aquaculture, better feed and access to feed, and drugs. Fish farmers and other self-employed people have also received training through Norad’s funding.