TARS 2024 explores the future of sustainable finfish aquaculture in Asia

THAILAND – The Aquaculture Roundtable Series (TARS) 2024, themed “Finfish Aquaculture: Steering an Industry into Focus,” concludes today in Bangkok, Thailand, after two days of insightful discussions and expert panels. 

The event, organised by Aqua Research P L and Corporate Media Services P L, has brought together stakeholders from across the industry to address the challenges and opportunities within Asia’s finfish aquaculture sector, featuring 210 participants from 25 countries.

The conference has highlighted a persistent issue within the industry: the dominance of lower-value species, such as tilapia and pangasius, with a notable absence of significant marine fish species. 

Despite Asia’s prominence as a leading supplier of these freshwater species, the region has lagged behind its temperate counterparts over the past decade. 

The question at the heart of this year’s discussions is why this disparity exists and what can be done to propel the industry forward.

Established in 2011, TARS is renowned for fostering collaboration among the public and private sectors, academia, government, and non-government organizations. 

This year’s focus on finfish aquaculture follows previous editions covering aquafeeds and shrimp aquaculture. 

While some large integrated operations in Asia have gained global recognition, many industry players are still seeking direction and focus for growth. 

The organizers of TARS 2024 believe there is untapped potential for Asian producers to expand their presence in the global whitefish market, contributing more significantly to food security.

This year’s event has provided a platform for in-depth analysis, innovative business models, and cutting-edge technology along the entire supply chain—from genetics to production to markets. 

Discussions have delved into the challenges of a production-led marine fish sector, where the farming of multiple species hinders economies of scale and slows research and development in areas like genetics, feed development, and vaccines.

Speakers at TARS 2024 also addressed the rising costs and cyclic lows in farmgate prices for tilapia and pangasius, questioning whether Asia’s supply has outpaced demand or if the region lacks in branding, marketing, and sustainability efforts. 

The conference underscored the need for Asian producers to meet growing demands for environmental sustainability, certification, traceability, and fish welfare, which are increasingly important to global markets.

For instance, a highlight of the event was a panel presentation on the traceability and sustainability of pangasius, led by industry experts Romi Novriadi (PhD), Niran Warin, and Sugania Vijayan. 

Additionally, Ms Nguyen Ngo Vi Tam, CEO of Vinh Hoan Corporation, shared her inspiring 26-year branding, marketing, and sustainability journey, providing valuable insights into the industry’s future direction.

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