Published on: 2026-06-17
Source: United Nations – United Nations –
An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.
Global aquaculture – that is, the cultivation of fish and seafood on farms – has for the first time in history surpassed traditional fishing in the open sea. This is reported in the new report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) “The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2026.” And this sector is breaking records, climate change and excessive catch put its future into question.
There is more fish, but also more risks
In 2024, global production of fish and seafood reached a record 188.2 million tons. For billions of people, this is not just food – it is a source of protein, vitamins, omega-3 acids, and personal well-being. On average, every person on the planet consumes 20.7 kilograms of fish per year – more than ever before.
In some countries, fish provides half of all animal protein in the diet. The industry employs almost 64 million people, and if you consider the entire chain—from processing to trade—it provides livelihoods for approximately 600 million people worldwide.
Aquaculture moves to the foreground
In 2024, farms produced 103.3 million tons of fish—more than was caught in the ocean. FAO calls this a “turning point” for the global food system.
Asia remains the leader in the industry, but production is rapidly growing in African and Latin American countries as well. For many rural areas, aquaculture is a chance to escape poverty and significantly improve their own nutrition. Small farms, which can provide local communities with fresh fish, are especially promising.
Reverse side of the medal
There is a downside to the rapid development of the industry. Fish farms, if poorly managed, can pollute water, spread diseases, and harm ecosystems. FAO calls on governments to tighten control and develop environmentally friendly cultivation methods.
The situation is complicated by climate change. Oceans are warming, water is becoming more acidic, fish are changing their usual migration routes. All this has an extremely negative impact on the livelihood of fishermen and coastal communities that depend on the sea.
The FAO report calls for urgent measures: from investments in climate change adaptation to the cessation of harmful subsidies and the fight against illegal fishing.
FAO speaks directly: without “transformational changes,” the industry may face serious shocks, but if countries bet on sustainable development methods and scientific support, aquaculture will be able to continue feeding the world – without destroying the oceans, on which life on Earth depends.
Please note; This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.