For the first time in history, global aquaculture production has surpassed traditional wild fishing, becoming the primary source of fish and seafood for the world’s population.
According to sea-news.az this was highlighted in the newly published “The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2026” report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations. According to the report, global fish and seafood production reached a record high of 188.2 million tonnes in 2024. The FAO describes aquaculture production outperforming the volume of fish caught in open seas for the first time as a significant milestone for the global food system.
Record Consumption and Economic Impact
The data emphasizes that fish remains a primary source of nutrition for the global population. Currently, per capita fish consumption worldwide averages 20.7 kilograms, which is the highest figure recorded to date. The socio-economic importance of the industry is also immense:
- Approximately 64 million people are directly employed in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors.
- Including processing, transportation, and trade chains, this industry supports the livelihoods of about 600 million people globally. The Asian region maintains its leading position in this field, but significant growth dynamics are also observed in Africa and Latin America.
Ecology and Climate Change Risks
Alongside major achievements, the FAO also warns of existing risks. Without adequate control mechanisms, aquaculture farms can lead to water pollution, the spread of diseases, and the disruption of natural ecosystems. Additionally, climate factors such as rising ocean temperatures, increasing water acidity, and shifting fish migration routes are exerting a growing negative impact on coastal communities.
Global Call from the UN
In light of the current situation, the FAO calls on countries to strengthen the fight against illegal fishing, eliminate harmful subsidies, and transition to science-based, ecologically sustainable production methods:
“Without ‘transformational change,’ the industry could face severe disruptions. However, if countries adopt sustainable development practices, aquaculture will continue to feed the world without destroying the oceans upon which life on Earth depends.”
