Global Aquaculture Welfare: Disparities and Progress

Aquaculture welfare standards vary enormously between countries, and global disparities create welfare inequities that international standards and trade rules could address.

Key Facts

Norway has the world's most developed aquaculture welfare regulatory framework
China produces over 60% of global aquaculture but has minimal welfare standards
ASC certification provides global welfare standards but uptake varies by region and species
Consumer demand for welfare certification is highest in northern Europe but growing globally
Trade rules could leverage market access to require welfare standards in exporting countries

Welfare Considerations

Fish farmed in countries with minimal welfare standards suffer conditions that would be illegal in regulated jurisdictions. Global aquaculture welfare improvement requires both developing domestic standards in producing countries and using trade policy to create incentives for standards adoption. International coordination through FAO and WOAH is developing welfare guidelines that can inform national standards. Consumer and retailer pressure for certified products creates market pathways for welfare improvement.

What You Can Do

Choose ASC-certified aquaculture products from certified producers
Support retailers with strong welfare sourcing policies for aquaculture products
Advocate for welfare standards to be included in UK trade agreements with aquaculture-exporting countries
Support capacity building for aquaculture welfare in developing country producers
Engage with international aquaculture welfare policy through trade and development advocacy