China's Rapid Development in Global Aquaculture

   In recent years, China's rapid development in aquaculture has profoundly changed the global seafood industry landscape. What was once considered a fragmented, low-end, and experience-dependent traditional industry has now been elevated to a national strategic level, becoming one of the most dynamic sectors in the global food industry.

   For Chinese consumers, the changes are most directly reflected on their dining tables. Abalone and tiger prawns, once considered high-end ingredients, are now readily available in the market at increasingly affordable prices. Behind this is the astonishing expansion and upgrading of China's aquaculture industry.

   Data shows that in 2024, China's marine product output exceeded 37 million tons, ranking first in the world for many consecutive years, with farmed products accounting for as much as 80%. This means that China is not only the world's largest producer of seafood but is also gradually becoming the core of the global marine protein supply chain. The massive scale of the industry ensures domestic consumption and stabilizes exports, making seafood an increasingly significant substitute for poultry and livestock meat in the Chinese diet.

   A deeper competitive advantage stems from the completeness of the industrial chain. From seedling breeding, feed processing, and disease prevention to aquaculture equipment, processing, and export, China has formed the world's most intensive and comprehensive aquaculture system. Investment in scientific research is also rapidly increasing. China has vigorously promoted research on core seed sources for marine aquaculture, successively cultivating new varieties such as golden pomfret, shrimp, and grouper. Relying on its complete manufacturing system, localized raw material supply, and low-cost advantages, Chinese aquatic products maintain strong price competitiveness in the international market.