April 7, 2025
           

Brazil's aquaculture industry hit more than 900,000 tonnes in production last year

 

 

In 2024, the industry reached a record 968,745 tonnes, marking a 9.21% increase compared to the previous year, according to the Brazilian Farming Fish Association (Peixe BR) 2025 Yearbook.

 

The expansion highlights the resilience of the sector, even in the face of economic and environmental challenges. The growth in the production of farmed fish in 2024 was the highest in the 10 years of a survey by Peixe BR.

 

Tilapia remains the driving force behind Brazil's aquaculture growth. In 2024, production reached 662,230 tonnes, a 14.36% increase, accounting for 68.36% of total farmed fish production. This growth was fueled by investments in infrastructure, genetic improvement, and feed efficiency.

 

Notably, Brazil has become the second-largest exporter of fresh tilapia fillet to the United States, strengthening its presence in international markets.

 

The production of native species fell by 1.81%, totalling 258,705 tonnes. This marks a continued downward trend, particularly in the Northern region, where production is heavily concentrated.

 

Despite lower supply, prices for native fish improved, signaling market potential if production stabilises. The report calls for greater collaboration between public and private sectors to reverse this decline.

 

The production of other species, such as pangasius, carp, and trout, increased by 7.5%, reaching 47,810 tonnes, with pangasius production expanding significantly in northeastern Brazil.

 

The state of Paraná closed 2024 with an increase of 17.35% (250,315 tonnes), representing 25% of total Brazilian fish production, followed by Minas Gerais, São Paulo, and Santa Catarina states.

 

Brazilian fish farmers and cooperatives have continued to expand their investments, improving farming techniques and processing capabilities. The sector is also anticipating legislative changes, particularly Senate Bill 4.470/2024, which aims to simplify regulations and improve competitiveness. If approved, this law will eliminate bureaucratic obstacles, fostering a more dynamic industry.

 

The US remained Brazil's top market, purchasing $52.2 million (89% of exports). Since 2020, Brazil has risen from the eighth to the fourth-largest tilapia supplier to the US, with a 718% sales increase. It is now the second-largest supplier of fresh tilapia fillets, behind Colombia.

 

- AquaFeed.com