Global fish production from both fisheries and aquaculture reached an unprecedented 188.2 million tons in 2024, underscoring the vital role of seafood as a primary source of nutrition and income for billions worldwide. According to the ‘State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2026’ report, aquaculture now accounts for the majority of fish produced for human consumption, marking a significant shift with profound implications for food security and environmental sustainability.
Aquaculture’s Ascendancy Fuels Consumption
Per capita fish consumption climbed to a record high of 20.7 kilograms annually. In numerous coastal and island nations, fish constitutes over half of the total animal protein intake. The sector is also a significant economic driver, directly employing approximately 63.8 million people globally in fishing and aquaculture, with women playing a crucial role in the workforce. When considering the broader value chain, fisheries and aquaculture support the livelihoods of an estimated 600 million people worldwide.
Aquaculture production surged to 103.3 million tons in 2024, continuing its rapid expansion over decades. The sector now supplies more fish for human consumption than wild-capture fisheries. The report labels this development a “turning point” for global food systems. While Asia dominates production, aquaculture is expanding in Africa and Latin America, offering new avenues for rural development and poverty alleviation. The potential of small-scale aquaculture to improve nutrition and income in underserved communities is particularly highlighted.
Oceans Under Increasing Pressure
However, this growth is accompanied by escalating risks. Intensive aquaculture can strain local ecosystems, spread diseases, and cause pollution if not managed properly. The FAO emphasizes the need for strengthened governance and the promotion of sustainable practices to ensure that the expansion of the sector does not come at an environmental cost.
Warming oceans, acidification, and shifts in species distribution are already disrupting fisheries globally, threatening communities reliant on these resources. The report urgently calls for investment in climate adaptation and ecosystem-based management to safeguard marine resources. “Transformative change is needed,” the report states, urging governments to end harmful subsidies, combat illegal fishing, and invest in science-based management.
