The World Bank has projected that investments in aquaculture could generate up to 22 million jobs by 2050 placing it as a key driver of global employment and food security.
In a recent report released in partnership with the Worldlife Fund titled, “Harnessing the Waters: A Trillion Dollar Investment Opportunity in Sustainable Aquaculture” the sector is already the world’s fastest-growing food industry and is on track to become the primary source of seafood globally.
The report outlines two possible growth paths: maintaining current investment levels at $0.5 trillion could raise global aquaculture output to 159 million metric tons by 2050, up from current levels, and create 8 to 14 million new jobs.
However, scaling up investment to $1.5 trillion could push production to 255 million metric tons and unlock 13 to 22 million jobs by mid-century.
Speaking on the potential of the sector, Genevieve Connors, acting Global Director of the Department of Environment at World Bank said,
“To realize aquaculture’s full potential, we must shift toward practices that are not only productive but also environmentally responsible, socially inclusive, and economically viable.
“This is a call to action – to deepen collaboration, to invest boldly in new aquaculture technologies, and to foster stronger alignment between public and private sectors.”
The report also noted that rising global demand for seafood is straining wild fisheries, making aquaculture an essential alternative.
Described as one of the most sustainable methods of producing animal protein, aquaculture is expected to play an increasingly vital role in feeding a global population projected to exceed 9 billion by 2050.
However, the sector faces significant financing gaps, particularly in emerging markets. The report advocates for innovative investment models that can attract both public and private capital, delivering solid returns while promoting sustainable practices.
As the world seeks solutions to unemployment and food insecurity, the World Bank’s projection of over 20 million jobs from aquaculture by 2050 underscores the sector’s immense potential to provide a solution and generate economic opportunities.
