Experts to discuss traceability, sustainability at Seafood Expo Asia

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The upcoming Seafood Expo Asia, set for September 4-6, 2024, in Singapore, promises to be a crucial event for seafood industry professionals, featuring a range of expert-led discussions on pivotal topics such as traceability, sustainability, and technological innovations in the seafood supply chain.

Traceability and sustainability are at the forefront of this year’s conference.

The Marine Stewardship Council will lead a session on how robust traceability systems and sustainable practices can meet consumer demands and mitigate environmental impacts, positioning Southeast Asia as a leader in the global seafood market.

Additionally, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) will present a panel analyzing the status and potential of responsible seafood consumption and aquaculture practices in Asia.

“The focus on illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is critical,” said a representative from the Ministry of Agriculture of Taiwan. “Addressing these issues is vital for sustainability and the implementation of effective traceability schemes.”

Utari Octavianty, Co-Founder and Chief Sustainability Officer of Aruna, a notable figure in the industry and recipient of Forbes’ 30 Under 30 award, will lead discussions on how technology can help small-scale fishers in Indonesia achieve fair pricing and stable market access.

Octavianty will also participate in a panel discussing the elevation of women’s roles in the seafood industry alongside Åshild Nakken of the Norwegian Seafood Council and Jill Briggs of Affectus.

The event will also feature perspectives from Latin American countries. Representatives from Chile, Argentina, and various seafood industry leaders from Ecuador and Panama will discuss Latin America’s integral role in Asia’s seafood market, highlighting the unique qualities and sustainable practices of their regional seafood.

In another forward-looking session, the expo will cover the emerging field of cell-cultured seafood, which is seen as a solution to issues such as mercury contamination, bycatch, and overfishing. Singapore’s leadership in cultivating this industry will be showcased.

Furthermore, an investor panel will spotlight six entrepreneurs who are pioneering technologies in aquaculture and the seafood supply chain. Their innovations range from shrimp farming technology to upcycling aquafeed ingredients and novel diagnostic tools.