June 7, 2024

Turkey sets new record in aquaculture production

Turkey has achieved a record in aquaculture production for consecutive years, producing 1.7 million tonnes in 2023, an 18.6% increase from the previous year, according to the country's Ministry of Agriculture and Forestry, TRT World reported.

Turkey's Minister of Agriculture and Forestry Ibrahim Yumakli said that the 2022 aquaculture production reached 849,800 tonnes, which was also a record.

Yumakli attributed this achievement to the ministry's support, policies, and projects that have boosted sustainable aquaculture production.

The minister also said 273,900 tonnes of European anchovies were caught in 2023, up 117% year-on-year.

He emphasised the importance of ensuring the sustainability of the European anchovy to prevent overfishing and maintain its availability for years to come. This species has been included in the ministry's production planning list of seven fish species.

Turkish salmon also saw a major increase, with production rising 45% annually to over 66,000 tonnes in 2023, Yumakli noted.

He affirmed that the ministry would continue its efforts to ensure sustainable aquaculture farming for species such as bream, sea bass, and mussels.

In 2023, Turkey exported aquaculture products worth US$1.7 billion to approximately 100 countries.

-      TRT World