With global fisheries operating near their maximum sustainable levels, the only increase in seafood production over the past ten years has come from aquaculture. Today, four out of ten seafoods in the U.S. are supplied by fish farmers, and aquaculture research is leading to new-farmed species that will help stabilize the supply of seafood. Aquaculture also provides new opportunities for fish farmers in both coastal and freshwater environments, and for fish producers operating enclosed grow out systems far removed from sea.

Norway has been a leader in the development of sustainable farming techniques that not only assure a consistent supply, but also protect the rich marine environment that coastal communities depend on for traditional fishery harvest. In order for aquaculture to fulfill its potential in global food supply, a greater focus on food safety and cooperation among all nations will be required to meet the growing demand for healthy and sustainable food products.

Useful links:
Norwegian Seafood Export Council
Royal Norwegian Ministry of Fisheries and Coastal Affairs

Participants:

• Janne Johnsen, State Secretary, Ministry of Fisheries and Coastal Affairs
• Jorhill Andreassen, Political Adviser, Ministry of Fisheries and Coastal Affairs
• Thor Lassen, Nordic Venture, and Chairman of NACC MA Seafood & Aquaculture Committee
• Otto Gregussen, Fisheries Counselor, The Royal Norwegian Embassy
• Merethe Nergaard, Minister Counselor Economic Affairs, The Royal Norwegian Embassy
• Nike Ladeji, SAIC
• Jane Lassen, Nordic Ventures
• Rolf Fredriksen, Eyesoft
• Joanne Mitchell, SAIC
• Atle B. Nordvik, EMT&A, President, NACC MA