Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
Global fisheries and aquaculture production reached a record 188.2 million tonnes in 2024, underscoring seafood’s vital role as a source of nutrition and income for billions worldwide, according to The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2026 by the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).
For the first time, aquaculture produced 103.3 million tonnes in 2024, surpassing capture fisheries as the primary supplier of fish for human consumption. This marks a major shift in global food systems. Per capita fish consumption also reached a historic high of 20.7 kilograms annually, with fish providing over half of animal protein in many coastal and island nations.
The economic impact is significant, with about 63.8 million direct jobs and roughly 600 million livelihoods supported across the broader value chain. Women participate especially in processing and trade. While Asia leads aquaculture production, expansion is creating new opportunities in Africa and Latin America for rural development and poverty alleviation.
However, the report warns that climate change, including warming oceans, acidification, and species shifts, along with overfishing and intensive aquaculture, threatens marine ecosystems and dependent communities. Poorly managed aquaculture can also cause environmental damage through pollution and disease.
The FAO calls on governments to strengthen governance, promote sustainable practices, and invest urgently in climate adaptation and ecosystem-based management to secure fisheries and aquaculture for the future.