Modern aquaculture zones to expand, boosting exports and fish supply

According to the Myanmar Fisheries Federation, modern aquaculture zones will be expanded across the country to reduce shortages of fishery products and increase foreign exchange earnings.

While the aquaculture sector is being developed extensively in foreign countries, Myanmar could also increase its foreign income and reduce shortages of fishery products if modern aquaculture zones are expanded domestically. In addition, the federation stated that the establishment of a modern fisheries and aquaculture zone could generate nearly US$200 million in annual revenue.

At present, declining marine fish resources and rising production costs have led to a reduction in offshore fishing activities, which has become a major challenge for countries such as Myanmar that rely heavily on both freshwater and saltwater fisheries. Therefore, if Myanmar can further expand and develop its freshwater and saltwater aquaculture sectors, the country will not only be able to meet domestic consumption demands but also secure continuous foreign exchange earnings through exports.

Currently, butterfish are being farmed using modern technology at a deep-water fish farming site covering more than 3,000 acres in Pantanaw Township, Ayeyawady Region. Contracts have already been signed for exports to the United States and China, and preparations are underway to begin exports this year.

ASH/MKKS

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