Global Fish Output Hits Record Amid Climate Risks

Offloading tuna in Côte d’Ivoire at Abidjan’s main port (file).

Global fisheries and aquaculture production reached a record 188.2 million tonnes in 2024, reinforcing seafood’s role as a vital source of food, nutrition and livelihoods for billions of people worldwide, according to a new report by the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO).

The report, The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2026, found that aquaculture has, for the first time, overtaken capture fisheries as the primary source of fish for human consumption, marking a significant shift in global food systems.

According to the findings, aquatic foods provide essential proteins, omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins and minerals that are often difficult to obtain from other sources, especially for vulnerable populations in low-income countries.

Global per capita fish consumption reached a record 20.7 kilograms annually, with fish continuing to serve as a major source of animal protein in many coastal and island nations.

The sector also remains a major source of employment. Around 63.8 million people are directly employed in fisheries and aquaculture worldwide, with women playing a major role, particularly in processing and trade. Across the broader value chain, the industry supports the livelihoods of nearly 600 million people globally.

Aquaculture production climbed to 103.3 million tonnes in 2024, continuing decades of expansion and now producing more fish for human consumption than traditional capture fisheries.

The report described the milestone as a “turning point” for global food security and environmental sustainability.

Asia continues to dominate global aquaculture production, although rapid growth in Africa and Latin America is opening new opportunities for rural development, employment and poverty reduction.

FAO highlighted the potential of small-scale aquaculture to improve nutrition and incomes in underserved communities.

Despite the progress, the report warned that rapid growth in aquaculture also presents increasing environmental risks. Intensive production can place pressure on ecosystems, contribute to pollution and spread disease if not properly managed.

The agency urged governments to strengthen regulations and adopt sustainable practices to ensure the industry’s expansion does not come at an environmental cost.

At the same time, climate change is posing growing threats to fisheries worldwide.

Warming oceans, acidification and shifting fish populations are already disrupting marine ecosystems and threatening communities dependent on fisheries for food and income.

The report called for urgent investment in climate adaptation, stronger marine governance and ecosystem-based management to protect fisheries and ensure long-term sustainability.

FAO also urged governments to eliminate harmful subsidies, tackle illegal and unregulated fishing, and increase science-based management efforts to safeguard ocean resources.

“Transformative change is needed,” the report said, warning that without stronger action, climate pressures and overfishing could undermine future gains in global seafood production.