Southeast Asia produces the majority of global farmed shrimp, with welfare standards varying widely across intensive, semi-intensive, and extensive production systems.
Shrimp welfare in Southeast Asian aquaculture varies from traditional extensive systems with low density and minimal intervention to highly intensive ponds where chronic stress and disease are significant concerns. Intensive systems prioritize maximum yield per area but at welfare cost through high social stress, frequent disease outbreaks, and acute mortality events. Traditional extensive and polyculture systems provide lower density conditions with more environmental complexity but less disease management support. Export market certification requirements are driving welfare improvement in some producer segments. The Shrimp Welfare Project's work in the region demonstrates that practical welfare improvements including reducing unnecessary handling and improving water quality are achievable in commercial contexts.