Japan White Paper targets aquaculture as key sustainable growth industry

The Japanese Cabinet approved the FY2025 White Paper on Fisheries on Friday, establishing a strategic framework to transform the aquaculture sector into a primary growth industry. The annual report was submitted to the Diet by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and highlights the necessity of strengthening domestic production systems to counter unprecedented challenges including climate change and a declining workforce.

Japan currently faces a complex set of obstacles within its marine industries. Fluctuating fishery resources and a shrinking number of workers threaten the stability of the domestic supply. Conversely, global demand for seafood continues to rise alongside the increasing world population. The white paper identifies aquaculture as a vital solution for ensuring a stable food supply through technological advancement and improved production efficiency.

A central focus of the report is the establishment of Japan as a leading nation in aquaculture technology. This includes the promotion of smart fisheries through the integration of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) and the advancement of selective breeding. The government intends to expand export channels for Japanese aquaculture products to meet international demand. Specific attention is given to the social implementation of full-cycle eel aquaculture and the future potential of land-based farming systems, which offer greater control over environmental variables.

The document also addresses broader systemic issues within the industry. It outlines measures to combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing and strategies to secure a new generation of fishery workers. Furthermore, the report details the role of marine-based businesses in revitalising fishing villages and provides updates on the recovery of the industry following the Great East Japan Earthquake and the 2024 Noto Peninsula Earthquake.

This policy roadmap signals a shift towards a more resilient and technologically driven marine economy. By prioritising resource management and technological sovereignty in aquaculture, Japan seeks to balance environmental conservation with economic viability. The success of these initiatives depends on the effective integration of ICT and the ability of local communities to adapt to shifting global market dynamics.