FAO: Asia drives global aquatic production to record high

Global production of aquatic animals and algae has surged to an unprecedented 235 million tons in 2024, with aquaculture expansion serving as the main engine of this growth, according to a new report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).

Asia stands at the forefront of this record output, contributing a substantial 76 percent of the global total. The region produced 179 million tons of aquatic animals and algae, with aquaculture alone accounting for nearly three-quarters, or 130 million tons. This marks a significant increase, as farmed aquatic animal production in Asia has more than doubled over the past two decades, growing at an average annual rate of 5 percent.

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Asia’s leadership in aquatic food production reflects decades of investment in aquaculture, innovation and value chains.

China is a dominant force within Asia's aquaculture sector, producing 57.6 million tons of farmed aquatic animals. Other major Asian producers include India, Indonesia, Vietnam, and Bangladesh. Asia's leadership extends to algae production as well, where it accounts for 97 percent of the nearly 40 million tons produced globally.

Alue Dohong, FAO Assistant Director-General and Regional Representative for Asia and the Pacific, attributed Asia's success to "decades of investment in aquaculture, innovation and value chains." He emphasized the region's crucial role in ensuring stable supplies of aquatic foods as global demand continues to rise, thereby supporting the livelihoods of millions.

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As global demand for aquatic foods continues to grow, the region will play a key role in ensuring stable supplies and supporting the livelihoods of millions.