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AQUACULTURE

Chairman: L. Váradi

Vice-Chairman: Y. Avnimelech

Rapporteur: J.P. Proteau

Technical Secretary: U. Barg

Activities and achievements of the Sub-commission during the period following since the Executive Committee Meeting , held in Rome, 14-15 June 1999, are summarized as follows:

1. Activities of the Working Parties

1.1 Ad hoc Working Party on Fish Diseases and Their Control

Convener: R. Richards

A joint EIFAC/EAFP Scoping Workshop on "Health Management in Sturgeon and Carp Aquaculture and Fisheries", held 19 September 1999, in Rhodes, Greece, was organized in cooperation with the European Association of Fish Pathologists (EAFP), in conjunction with the EAFP International Conference on Fish and Shellfish Disease, 20-23 September 1999. The summary report of this workshop is attached as Annex 1.

1.2 Ad hoc Working Party on Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management

Convener: H. Ackefors

The Convener has finalized the synthesis report of the Working Party. The summary of the report is attached as Annex 2, while the full report is made available as EIFAC/XXI/2000/Inf.11.

1.3 Ad hoc Working Party on Fish and Crustaceans Nutrition

Convener: I. Csengeri

The Proceedings of the "EIFAC Workshop on Fish and Crustacean Nutrition Methodology and Research for Semi-intensive Pond-based Farming Systems 3-5 April, 1996. Szarvas, Hungary" was not published in the special volume/supplement in the international scientific journal: AQUACULTURE NUTRITION as the manuscripts had not matched the standards of the Journal. Instead, arrangements have been made for the publication of the Proceedings in the yearbook series of the Fish Culture Research Institute, Szarvas, Hungary. The editing work is in progress, and sufficient number of copies will be provided to EIFAC Secretariat for distribution to authors and EIFAC officers.

The preparation of the Second Edition of the Hungarian Feed Codex is in progress. During the preparation of the Codex, EU Standards and directives are taken into account with special regards to the food safety directives of the European Union.

2. Other activities

2.1 Fifteenth Annual Meeting of European Senior Fisheries Cooperation Advisers and the European Commission Bremen, Germany, 17-18 June, 1999

The meeting was attended by 17 Fisheries Cooperation Advisers from 10 EU countries, 10 independent experts/observers (including representatives of two non-EU countries from Czech Republic and Hungary), and three representatives of the European Commission. The meeting was hosted by the Deutsche Gesellschaft für Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ), German Technical Cooperation Agency. The meeting in Bremen was attended by L. Váradi, who besides being representative of Hungary, was an observer also for FAO EIFAC. A summary report on the Bremen meeting is attached as Annex 3.

2.2 Conference on Aquaculture Economics and Marketing, Debrecen, Hungary, 30 August-1 September 1999

The conference was attended by about 60 participants from 10 countries. Keynote lectures were presented by Prof. Ping Sun Leung, University of Hawaii, Dr. Audun Lem, FAO, and Mr. Imre Csavas, retired FAO expert. In spite of the indicated interest from several Eastern European countries, only few experts could manage to come to Hungary due to financial constraints. The conference was an excellent forum for exchange of information on aquaculture marketing, which is a main issue in European aquaculture development with special regard to Central and Eastern Europe. The conference was regarded as a first one of a series of conferences in aquaculture economics, which will be organized regularly in Hungary by Fish Culture Research Institute, Szarvas, and the Agricultural Center of Debrecen University. The venue of the next conference will be at Szarvas in 2001, and the proposed main theme is "Demand for fish and seafood". The presentations of the last conference will be published soon in a Conference Proceedings.

2.3. FEAP Presidents� Meeting, Thessaloniki, Greece, 25 September 1999, and the FEAP Code of Conduct for European Aquaculture

Mr L. Váradi, Chairman of Subcommission II Aquaculture, attended the Presidents� Meeting of the Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP), as one of the representatives of the Hungarian Fish Producers Association (HOSZ). The Hungarian producers� association was accepted as new member of FEAP during the meeting. The Hungarian HOSZ became the third Eastern European Association in FEAP besides the Czech Carp Farmers Association, and the Polish Trout Farmers Association. The attendance of the Chairman of EIFAC Sub-commission II. on the FEAP Presidents� Meeting was a further step towards an active collaboration between EIFAC and FEAP. The collaboration with producers� associations, in particular with FEAP has an increasing importance regarding the needs for closer ties between the scientific and production sector. The various working groups of EIFAC may give more attention to some specific problems in the future, the aquaculture production sector is facing, such as, for example, dioxins and animal welfare issues.

The FEAP recently produced a Code of Conduct for European Aquaculture. A copy of the FEAP Code will be made available to the participants of the Twenty-first Session of EIFAC. A short presentation on the FEAP Code will be made by Mr U. Barg (FAO), who participated in the FEAP Working Group on the Code.

2.4 Third Thematic Conference, PESCA: The Future of Aquaculture in Europe, Santiago de Compostella, Galicia, Spain, 5-6 November 1999

The Third Thematic Conference was a consultative forum to discuss the outlook for the development of European aquaculture, before the finalization of the new FIFG program (Fisheries Instrument for Fisheries Guidance) for the period 2000-2006. About 300 professionals from about 20 countries attended the two-day conference. EIFAC was also represented by L. Váradi, Chairman of Sub-commission II, whose attendance was supported by FAO/EIFAC. Mr Váradi's summary report on the conference is attached as Annex 4.

2.5 NACA/FAO Conference on Aquaculture Development in the Third Millennium, Bangkok, Thailand, 20-25 February 2000

In cooperation with FAO's inland fisheries and aquaculture team, and FAO's EASTFISH project, the Fish Culture Research Institute (HAKI) prepared two reviews for this global aquaculture conference, which was jointly organized by NACA (Network of Aquaculture Centers in Asia and the Pacific) and FAO. The two regional reviews prepared by HAKI: "Review of Aquaculture Development Trends in Europe" and "Review of Aquaculture Development Trends in the Former USSR Countries", were parts of a series of reviews of aquaculture development trends in the various regions of the world. Prior to the conference, the draft reviews were discussed at an FAO Expert Consultation on Aquaculture Development Trends, held 25-28 October 1999, in Bangkok, Thailand. The regional syntheses on aquaculture development trends in Europe and in the countries in the Former USSR were presented to this consultation by L. Váradi.

Based on the facts and findings of the two regional reviews, two presentations were given at the NACA/FAO Conference in Bangkok by HAKI experts, namely L. Váradi (on Europe) and F. Pekar (on countries of the Former USSR). Short summaries of these review presentations, prepared for the Bangkok Conference, are attached as Annexes 5 and 6.

The two regional trend reviews are being edited and critically examined now in cooperation with FAO and EASTFISH for finalization and publication both in written form and through electronic media (CD, Internet). Significant interest in these reviews has been indicated by aquaculture experts and organizations.

There have been various technical sessions during the conference, where specific aspects of aquaculture development were discussed by invited participating experts. The Chairman and the Vice-Chairman of Aquaculture Sub-commission II., L. Váradi, and Y. Avnimelech were actively involved in the work of Session 3.1. "Aquaculture Systems and Species", within the program of Session 3. "Technologies for Sustainable Aquaculture Development.

The participants of the NACA/FAO Conference produced a Bangkok Declaration and Strategy, which was published in April 2000, and is made available to participants of the Twenty-first Session of EIFAC.

2.6 Governing Council Meeting of NACA (Network of Aquaculture Centers in Asia-Pacific) 26-27 February 2000, Bangkok, Thailand

L. Váradi attended the meeting, where HAKI expressed its intention to be an active cooperating institution of NACA. The collaboration between NACA, FAO and HAKI was established 25 years ago in the framework of the former FAO-ADCP network. The relationship between NACA and HAKI was limited to occasional exchange of information after the political and economical changes and consequent difficulties in Eastern Europe, however HAKI has been active again in South East Asia (mainly in Vietnam and Laos). It was agreed, that NACA and HAKI will sign a Memorandum of Understanding regarding their collaboration in aquaculture development in the Asian region. HAKI will be the first European aquaculture institution, which will have a formal tie with NACA, contributing this way to the development of inter-regional cooperation between Europe and Asia in the field of aquaculture.

2.7 FAO Expert Consultation on the Proposed Sub-Committee on Aquaculture of the Committee on Fisheries (COFI), at the FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific, Bangkok, Thailand, 28-29 February 2000

The Expert Consultation was convened at the FAO Regional Office for Asia and the Pacific in conjunction with the NACA/FAO Conference on Aquaculture, and was attended by 33 participants from 14 countries, 2 regional intergovernmental organizations, 2 international non-governmental organizations and the FAO Secretariat.

The Consultation confirmed that a global intergovernmental mechanism is needed to provide the opportunity for information exchange, discussion and consensus-building among various parties interested in global aquaculture development and to provide means to advise and guide COFI and FAO on aquaculture development policies and practices. The Consultation concluded that the formation of a COFI Sub-Committee on Aquaculture was justified. Possible contributions of the Sub-Committee to the sustainable aquaculture development were discussed. The role of aquaculture for enhancing food security and alleviating poverty and fostering economic development was considered a primary priority.

Annex 1

EIFAC Sub-Commission on Aquaculture

Working Party on Fish Diseases and their Control

Convener: Professor Randolph Richards, Institute of Aquaculture, University of Stirling, United Kingdom

Technical Secretary: Rohana Subasinghe, FAO/FIRI

Report on the EIFAC/EAFP Scoping Workshop on Health Management Aspects of Sturgeon and Carp Aquaculture and Fisheries, held 19 September 1999 in association with the EAFP International Conference on Aquatic Animal Health Management (20-23 September 1999), Rhodes, Greece.

The Scoping Workshop entitled "Health Management Aspects of Sturgeon and Carp Aquaculture and Fisheries" was attended by 23 participants from 11 countries participated. The workshop discussed the issues related to sturgeon and carp aquaculture and fisheries in EIFAC member countries. It was noted that problems in sturgeon culture and fisheries are more important and timely to address compared to those of carps. Although reviews and presentations were made on carp health problems, the discussions clearly indicated that sturgeon aquaculture and fisheries have far more important and compelling needs to address in order to overcome them.

The workshop revealed that strong international demand for caviar has prompted over-fishing in the traditional sturgeon-producing areas placing the vitality of these sturgeon fisheries in jeopardy. Additionally, construction of dams on rivers inhibit migration of sturgeon and appear to have led to extensive changes in the spawning and nursery habitat that significantly effect recruitment of these species. Industrial and agricultural runoffs into pristine habitats also appeared to have further contributed to the depletion of many sturgeon stocks. Conservation aquaculture programs have been identified as a prudent and necessary tool for recovering endangered species of sturgeon. These programs need to address the potential impacts on genetic variability, artificial selection, and effects of disease on the native population prior to their development and implementation. Management strategies should be based on available scientific information to minimise detrimental effects yet remain flexible and designed to rapidly incorporate new information, as it becomes available.

The workshop focused on the host-pathogen-environment interactions that could potentially effect the viability of these species. These included factors associated with the host, including reproduction, development, nutrition, and immune defence mechanisms. Additionally, infectious and non-infectious aetiologies observed in natural and artificial environments were described. Integrated health management strategies including vaccination, chemotherapy, and manipulation of environmental factors were also discussed to assess their potential effect(s) on host-pathogen interactions and population viability. The current scientific information on the geographical distribution of pathogens of sturgeon species was also summarised and the risks of exotic disease and pathogen introductions were discussed.

Finally, the role of development agencies in assisting institutions and governments to address the issues concerning the protection of depleting sturgeon stocks and their sustainable utilisation was also discussed, at a Special Session on Sturgeon Aquaculture held just prior to the main EAFP International Conference. The recommendations of the FAO-EIFAC/EAFP joint scoping workshop were also discussed and endorsed by the participants of this Special Session.

The summary of recommendations that resulted from the workshops included:

• Preservation of sturgeon species and their habitats.
• Identification of environmental variables that effect sturgeon health.
• Further development of sturgeon aquaculture as a tool for enhancement.
• Development of biological and therapeutic strategies.
• Enhanced diagnostic assays and non-lethal sampling protocols.
• Define culture conditions for various species.
• Enhanced fish health and reproductive success through better nutrition.
• Devise appropriate breeding strategies to maintain genetic heterogeneity.
• Initiate and/or continue research on the physiology, immunology and biology of these species.
• Assess the risks of introducing exotic sturgeon species into new environments and the potential displacement of native sturgeon stocks.

Two priority, short-term activities were also identified. The first was to organise a meeting that would encompass the subject areas that had been identified by the two workshops either in combination with the Acipenser Conference in July, 2001 in Wisconsin, USA or in combination with the EAFP�s X International Conference in September, 2001 in Dublin, Ireland. However, given the timely need to assist some countries and institutions with regard to current status of some sturgeon populations, a meeting at an earlier date was proposed. The second objective was to explore the possibility of producing a guidebook on the pathogens, diseases, and health management of sturgeon species and populations, structured similar to the EAFP/EU Commission Freshwater and Marine "WHAT SHOULD I DO" booklets. It is hoped that this information would then be made available in printed and CD-ROM formats.

FAO/EIFAC/EAFP Scoping Workshop on

"Health Management Aspects of Sturgeon and Carp Aquaculture and Fisheries"

19 September 1999 � Rhodos Palace Hotel, Rhodes, Greece

Time	Activity
10.00	Registration and coffee
10.30	Introduction and Welcome R.H. Richards (EIFAC) - Scotland, UK.
10.35 - 10.55	Aquatic animal health management programmes of FAO: a global perspective - Rohana Subasinghe (FAO)
10.55 - 11.00	Aquatic animal health management: opportunities for collaboration among FAO, EIFAC, and EAFP - Hans-Jurgen Schlotfeldt (EAFP) - Germany
11.00 - 11.15	Disease problems in French sturgeon farms - Patrick Daniel - France
11.15 - 11.30	Overview on carp and sturgeon culture & health management in Greece - F. Atthanassopoulou - Greece
11.30-11.45	An overview of the health of cultured, wild and enhanced populations of sturgeon in North America - Scott La Patra - USA
11.40 - 12.00	Infectious diseases of carp and sturgeons in Russia, their diagnosis and control Igor Shchelkunov - Russia
12.00 - 12.30	Discussion
12.30 - 14.00	Lunch
14.00 - 14.20	Sturgeon and carp health problems in The Netherlands - Olga Haenen - Netherlands
14.20 - 14.35	Status of sturgeons and cyprinids in the Volga-Caspian Region - Mrs Lartseva
14.35 - 15.05	Status of sturgeons and cyprinids in the Volga-Caspian Region Ivanov (in Russian, translated by Igor Shchelkunov) - Russia
15.05 - 15.20	Overview of health situation in Croatian cyprinid culture - Snjezana Zrncic - Croatia
15.20- 15.35	Coffee
15.35 - 15.50	SVCV spring viraemia of carp virus, summary & latest experiment reports - Sandra Essbauer -
15.50 - 16.10	Carp aquaculture and health problems in Czech Republic - Zdenka Svobodova - Czech Republic
16.10- 16.30	Aspects of carp culture and health management in UK Barry Hill - UK
16.30 - 17.30	Discussion and conclusion

 

Annex 2

Summary of the Study Report on Aquatic Resources Management in European Aquaculture

by

Professor Dr Hans Ackefors

Convener of the EIFAC Working Party on Aquatic Resources Management in Aquaculture

In Europe the supply of freshwater varies between countries, depending on different precipitation and climate conditions. Higher temperatures in the middle and southern parts of Europe increases the evapotranspiration and this might create a water deficit. Generally speaking the amounts of surface water and ground water for aquaculture and other activities therefore vary from north to south. In addition, the available water quantity per capita is a function of the population size.

A comparison of the use of water in the countries investigated shows that in many of these most of the water goes to the industrial sector. In only a few countries more water is being used for domestic or agricultural purposes. In Denmark aquaculture uses a lot of water (in this case calculated as the river flow) while in most countries usually aquaculture industry uses less water than other functions in the societies.

Extraction of water is usually regulated by national laws and in some countries farmers have to pay for water use. The aquaculture industry uses mostly surface water (rivers and lakes), but well water and ground water is also used to some extent.

The aquaculture technology put into practice varies from pond cultures in Eastern Europe, the Baltic states, and Denmark to cage culture in the UK and Sweden. In Finland both types of technology are applied. In most countries except Hungary and Israel, flow-through systems are used. Poland, UK and Finland report on raceways systems. The latter country also refers to indoor aquaculture as a common method. Closed systems (recirculating systems) are practiced in Denmark and Israel to a large extent although they are in use also in most other countries.

Large pond areas (10,000 to 50,000 ha) are reported from Lithuania, Hungary and Poland. In other countries with cage cultures, incomplete statistics do not reveal the size of such cultures except for Sweden. In Sweden more than 1,000 cages are used with a capacity of 368, 000 m3.

Interaction or competition with other water users are generally of minor importance although there might be problems with the tourist industry and in some urban areas. There is a negative impact on aquaculture from bad water quality, this being cause mainly by acidification, eutrophication, industrial wastes and humic acids. Pretreatment at the site of supplied water is common. Ponds are treated with lime for two reasons, i.e. to raise pH due to the influence by acidification and to disinfect pond bottoms. The industry also reports on gas problems, and too high iron and manganese concentrations in the water.

The discharge of water from aquaculture operations can be a problem which might be alleviated by various treatment procedures. There are regulations on discharge in most countries and the farmers must reduce the nutrients and organic material emanating from farming operations. Methods to limit pollution are sedimentation ponds, whirl separators, mechanical filter systems as triangle filter, drum and plate filters. Recently, systems aimed at collecting waste waters in cage culture have been designed.

The importance of inland aquaculture in Europe is obvious. In 1996 aquaculture harvest in eastern Europe was 57.1% of the total aquatic production (77,046 versus 134,958 tonnes) and the corresponding figure for western Europe was 66.8% (252,888 versus 378,360 tonnes). Thus the aquaculture production is higher than the yield from capture fisheries.

The inland aquaculture production compared to marine aquaculture production is rather high in some countries with a long coast, e.g. Sweden and Denmark (38.5% and 81.2%, respectively of the total aquaculture yield).

Inland aquaculture contributes to storage of water and improved microclimate. Agriculture and power industries have a mutual in terest to store water, which can serve as enclosures for aquaculture operations. Aquaculture contributes very much to sport and recreational fisheries. It creates employment and income in remote areas.

Species cultivated in Eastern Europe are dominated by cyprinids (carps) and in Western Europe by salmonids (mainly rainbow trout). The diversity of fish species cultivated is larger in the latter area.

In most countries a comprehensive network of acts and ordinances is the basis for rules and regulations for the aquaculture industry. Applications accompanied by EIA have to be sent to relevant authorities. Site, operation size, water extraction, fish species and strains, are stipulated in connection with licences given. In some cases feed input, feed quality and maximum feed conversion ratios are regulated.

The farmers are usually obliged to make daily records on their operations regarding movement of fish, mortality and diseases. Disease problems do exist although in many cases vaccines have prevented disease outbreaks at least with regard to furunculosis and vibriosis.

Institutes and universities dealing with aquaculture research are reported by all countries.

Farmers� associations are seen as necessary for promoting aquaculture and to some extent to protecting farmers from unreasonable rules and regulations being issued by the authorities.

Annex 3

Summary report on the

Fifteenth Annual Meeting between European Senior Fisheries Cooperation Advisers and the European Commission
Bremen, Germany, 17-18 June 1999

The meeting was attended by 17 Fisheries Cooperation Advisers from 10 EU countries, 10 independent experts/observers (including representatives of two non-EU countries from Czech Republic and Hungary), and three representatives of the European Commission. The meeting was hosted by the Deutsche Gesellschaft fur Technische Zusammenarbeit (GTZ), German Technical Cooperation Agency.

1. Thematic seminars

1.1 International donor cooperation and sustainable livelihoods

As a contribution to the discussion on "sustainable livelihoods", a paper on key experiences from fisheries projects in rural areas of Brazil was presented by German experts. As the term "sustainable livelihood" is being redefined in the context of development cooperation, it was suggested that the underlying concept be clarified through more exchange to avoid confusion. The representative of the UK made a short presentation outlining the sustainable livelihood framework, which DFID adopted in the natural resources sector. The basic elements of the framework are: (1) the vulnerability context; (2) the various forms of assets upon which livelihoods are based; (3) the transforming structures and processes through which livelihood strategies are mediated, (4) the livelihood strategies themselves; (5) the outcomes for people pursuing the livelihood strategies.

1.2 Aquaculture trends and related to fisheries with emphasis on Asia

The situation was analysed by S. Cataudella from the University of Rome, "Tor Vergata". At present, aquaculture is suffering a drawback due to environmental and development implications leading to an increasing internalisation of formerly external costs. With the new economic trends imposing intensification, the externalities will further increase and with their internalisation production costs will go up. Among the issues and problems of current aquaculture development to which the speaker drew attention were: (1) the role of equity and solidarity in sustainable rural development, (2) the problem of using the same principles for funding commercial and small scale ventures; (3) the lack of attention for the role of appropriate management of coastal lagoons in utilising their significant natural production potentials, (4) the reduction of genetic diversity through controlled reproduction of fish fry for stocking.

1.3 Regional organisations and other mechanisms to implement the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries

An example of what modern fisheries development can achieve was given through the Lake Tanganyika Project, which is funded by the Finnish government. As a result of the project, the Lake Tanganyika Framework Fisheries Management Plan was elaborated through joint efforts of advisers and associates from the national partner agencies of the riparian countries (Burundi, Democratic Republic of Congo, Tanzania and Zambia), University of Kuopio, Finnland, and the Fisheries Department and the Legal Office of FAO. CD ROMs with essential project generated documentation facilitating further use of research and participatory work results will be made available. Reference was also made to the DFID/FAO project, which assists in the implementation of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries in West Africa. This programme involves 24 countries and builds on the former integrated artisanal fisheries development programme (IDAF) of FAO/DANIDA, through which a network of 20 coastal countries from Mauritania to Angola was established. To this network four landlocked Sahelian countries are now added: Burkina Faso, Chad, Mali and Niger.

2. European Coordination

2.1 Information exchange

The representatives of various organisations and institutions reported on their activities in development cooperation and also on their government�s cooperation policies.

The participants were informed about the EIFAC symposium, which will be held in Budapest, with the main topics of "Fisheries and the society", and also on the preparation of the European review on aquaculture development. These activities also contribute to the improvement of information exchange in the field of fisheries and aquaculture on European level.

It was agreed that there is a need for more extensive information exchange between organisations and institutions, which are involved in development cooperation, taking also into account the contraction of financial resources. Information exchange is especially important during the preparation of new projects. The possibilities for information exchange offered by formal and informal contacts, existing networks, internet, and other forums could be utilised as far as possible.

The FishBase programme was also demonstrated at the end of the meeting, which could also contribute to the better exchange of information in some special areas (e.g. species, management).

2.2 Up-date on the ACP-EU Fisheries Research Initiative

The Commission continues to support the FRI, and a possible support mechanism is the INCO-Dev of the 5^th Framework Programme. The call for proposals in 2000 focuses on ecosystem research. As a result of the successful conferences at the EXPO �98, a number of new scientific collaborations are in preparation. The proceedings of EXPO conferences will be disseminated.

2.3 Opportunities for coordination in ocean governance and preparation of international fisheries and aquaculture fora

The representative of DG VIII announced that information will be distributed on forthcoming fora and conferences in order to provide possibilities of exchange before the events, and invited the group to contribute as much as possible to this advanced information.

2.4 Negotiation of post-Lomé relations with ACP countries

A representative of the Commission informed about the on-going negotiations on the future relations between ACP countries and the Union after the expiry of the current Lomé Convention. It is intended to bring future trade agreements with ACP states increasingly in line with WTO rules with special regard to: overall reduction of import tariffs; subsidies; and multilateral agreements on investments. A joint study was already looking at a series of options in order to make sure that the ACP partner countries are not the losers in trade liberalisation. The forthcoming INCO calls were considered an opportunity to address these issues, top priority being allocated to policy research with a specific focus on health and food.

The next meeting is scheduled for 28-29 June 2000, which will be held in Denmark.

Annex 4

Report on the

Third Thematic Conference, PESCA - The Future of Aquaculture in Europe,
Santiago de Compostela
Galicia, Spain, 5-6 November 1999

by László Váradi, Chairman of EIFAC Sub-Commission II (Aquaculture)

1. Background

This was the third Thematic Conference to be organised under the PESCA Inter Regional Cooperation programme. The first one in 1997 was on Fish Processing while the second in 1998 on the Future of the Fisheries Structural Fund. The two major objectives of the conference were: to provide a forum for exchange of views between Member state representatives, regional authorities, the industry, experts and the commission; and to encourage the exchange of experience, and facilitate contacts between participants all with a view to helping to tackle the problems of fisheries dependent areas.

The conference was attended by about 300 participants, from about 20 countries mostly from the EU region. EIFAC was also represented by Mr. László Váradi, Chairman of Aquaculture Sub-commission, whose travel and accommodation costs were covered by FAO/EIFAC. This report summarises the presentations of the conference, and provides recommendations, which may be taken into account during the planning of future EIFAC activities.

2. Summary of the presentations

2.1 Opening session

Dr. Franz Fischler, Commissioner for Agriculture and Fisheries pointed out, that aquaculture is at a cross roads in its development. The two main issues are the environmental constraints and the changing market conditions. Considerable support has been given to the sector between 1994-1999 within the EU, and it has been explicitly stated that aquaculture is eligible for further support through FIFG during the period of 2000-2006 with special regards to coastal regions. EC support goes primarily to those areas, where economical situation is lagging behind the average. The technical and economical feasibility of the projects and the influence of the environment will be important priorities, and collective actions will also receive special consideration during the allocation of financial support of aquaculture.

A presentation on the status and perspectives of community aquaculture was provided by MacAlister Elliott and Partners Ltd. The overall EU aquaculture production was 1,107,763 tonnes, worth 1,975 million euro in 1997. The EU produces 3% in volume and 4.3% in value of world-wide production of all species, however the EU is a leading region in the production of certain species, like turbot (100 %), European eel (99%), mussels (70%), sea bass and sea bream (68%). The study analysed the recent trends in output, prices and profitability according to the main species groups, and also provided ten-year projection scenarios for EU aquaculture on a species by species basis. According to the findings of the study, there is no alternative but further contraction in the carp industry. Eel, mussel and oyster appear to have little scope for expansion of demand, though specialised niches exist. For salmon, sea bass, sea bream, turbot and to a lesser extent, trout, continuing strong demand growth is likely to be able to absorb plausible increase in domestic production. Nevertheless, the scenario results illustrate the sensitivity of prices to supply increases, including from imports. The study also summarised main aspects and priorities, which should be considered during the planning of financial support to the development of EU aquaculture.

Alessandro Perolo, President of FEAP (Federation of European Aquaculture Producers) emphasised, that EU aquaculture needs to be well programmed both at national and European levels taking into account the fragmentation of the production, the diversification of culinary habits and consumer attitudes. The priority issue of the industry is the market balance between supply and demand, while keeping in mind the obligations of environmental needs and the consumer�s requests. FEAP is trying to project demand, which is not a traditional activity of producers� association, but such information is essential for the producers. The realisation of the jump from theory to practice is the task of the farmers and their associations. No long term stability can be reached without constant analysis of the production and market processes and increasing inputs to the industry by the European federation and the national associations. FEAP has made efforts to intensify dialog with EC Directorate General for Fisheries. A Code of Conduct for European Aquaculture has also been elaborated by FEAP. Financial instruments are needed, as required for the development of the sector, with special regard to: (a) balance for supply and demand; (b) environment, and consumer-led approach; (c) quality promotion; (d) product diversification; (e) effective marketing and promotion; (f) communication.

Richard Flynn, representative of European Association of Shellfish Producers pointed out, that European aquaculture is as much about "people and places" as "profitability and projections", with special regard to remote areas. In the future, mussel production will be driven by processing companies who are vertically integrating downwards. The alleged negative demand trend in the oyster industry is strongly linked to lack of support for marketing. There is much untapped potential for cooperative marketing in oysters. The clams projection gives a positive outlook, but disease problems must be overcome and more applied R&D is needed in this sector. There is a need for greater cooperation and coordination in production and marketing within the shellfish industry, which need to be aware of developments in third countries as well. There is a need for EU assistance to the sector, which could mainly be policy support, however capital investment support is still crucial for primary production SMEs in peripheral areas. The bureaucratic response to Classification Directives ("play it safe") increases costs on the producer and only protects the regulator rather than working for cleaner water. It must be ensured that EU directives have positive rather than negative effect on entrepreneurs and risk takers who are the engine of the coastal and rural economies.

2.2 Thematic sessions

There were two thematic sessions in the program of the conference: "The future development of aquaculture"; and "Aquaculture environment and health". These sessions addressed a range of issues of concern to the future development of the industry.

2.2.1 Session 1. "Prospects for development of aquaculture"

In his introductory speech, Mr. Arnal Monreal, Director at the European Commission�s Directorate General for Fisheries, informed the participants that the FIFG is under discussion, and agreement is expected to be reached soon. Regarding market issues, he emphasised the importance of research on alternative marine species. More collaboration is needed to meet market challenges especially in mollusc culture. As far as environmental issues are concerned, easy access should be provided to space, water and fish feed. However stricter obligations are expected regarding the use of resources. The new FIFG will require environment impact analysis from intensive farms. The development of offshore farms and the recycling through filters and wetlands will be encouraged. FIFG will provide support to those producers/developers who can demonstrate the decrease of environmental impacts. FIFG will favour "group of producers" who have joint efforts to alleviate environmental problems. Research involvement is also encouraged. Aquaculture may affect wild stocks through disease transmission. The FIFG will take this into account. Internal technology development is stimulated in order to decrease production cost and increase competitiveness. Good research results should receive better acknowledgement and acceptance. Public support (80% of all eligible cost) will therefore be increased on pilot projects. To create employment is an important role of aquaculture, especially in disadvantageous areas. Aquaculture has been developed, where appropriate conditions were available, and aquaculture has an important role in economic cohesion of EU.

The presentations from the salmon sector strengthened the projections of the MacAllister report regarding the positive outlook in the salmon industry. In Scotland there is a steady increase in production, and the industry provides 6500 jobs, 75% of which on highlands and islands. The need of caution was expressed regarding the off-shore technology, which requires further investments and technology development. As far as marketing is concerned, the historic growth of demand is slowing down, and there is an increasing competition with beef and lamb. Market development is a key factor of the future success of the industry, which should include greater processing, use of symbols and logos, and exploration of restaurants. EU support is required with special regard to the difficulties, which peripheral maritime industries face. In Ireland many salmon farms are already operating in exposed locations due to the shortage of sheltered bays or fjords. It seems that previous legislation problems do not hamper the expansion of sea-cage farming anymore, and about 50% of the projected more than fivefold increase in finfish production will come from off-shore cage farms by 2010. Various types of off-shore cages are investigated in the framework of EU supported project, including the US-designed Ocean Spar, which has a volume of 23,000 cubic meter and capable of holding up to 700 tons of fish. Further development works are needed however, which requires EU support. Commercial fishermen would be ideal candidates for operating these ocean farms.

The trout production in EU countries increased 57% in the last decade, however there has been a 25% price decrease in the same period. Though Europe is still market leader with its 54% share in global production, the growth rate of production is higher in other regions. Some concerns have been expressed about the future of the industry due to the increasing production cost. An alarming example from Denmark was given, where 18% of the trout farms were closed within a period of 8 years. There are however possibilities to eliminate constraints. This requires political will, positive public perception, R&D, and funding.

The instability in the sea bass and sea bream industry, which was demonstrated in the MacAllister Report, was also proved by the presentations. While the activity of the Greek Selonda Aquaculture Group was presented as a great business success, another presentation on the state of the Greek fish farming industry pointed out that the industry is in crisis. The Selonda Group is a successful business venture indeed, which is on the Athens Stock Exchange. Selonda�s sale value reached 32 million euro in 1999, with a profit of 6.5 million Euro. The three hatcheries of the company have a capacity of 65 million fry, while the licensed capacity of the ten on-growing sites is 2,800 tons. Selonda has a fish distribution network as well, and expanding its activity to Kuwait, South East Asia and China. There are however serious constraints in the sea bass and sea bream industry in Greece, which resulted in drastic price drop in the past years. The price of the sea bass decreased about 35% since 1994. The reasons of the critical situations include: ignorance of legislative measures; unchecked over-production; unfair competition; lack of long-term strategy; narrow diversity of cultivated species; poor business management; and lack of market organisation. In order to bring the industry out of the crisis, it is suggested that production should be frozen, the compliance with financial regulations should be strictly controlled, the resources of the Third Community Support Framework should be properly allocated, and the long standing demands of the sector, namely the proper spatial decisions for existing and future facilities, and the introduction of appropriate legislation must be met.

The production of the Spanish shellfish industry increased from 22,460 tonnes (1956) up to 258,000 tonnes by 1998. The sector developed "on his own" without major intervention of the scientific community and the government. 20,000 people are employed in the industry (8,500 full time, 3,000 part time, and the others in the up-and downstream industries). The main issues could be summarised according to the followings: external environmental impact on the production; disease; legal constraints; socio-economic aspects; import from third countries; investments (need for balanced development); R&D. The rather pessimistic view on the future of mussel production by Mc Allister Report is argued. What should also be clarified, is that environmental impact of mussel culture is minimal, and practically there is no negative interaction with fisheries. Mussel farmers are depending on the environment, and they protect, rather than spoil it.

2.2.2 Session 2. Aquaculture, the environment and health

Environment and health aspects have special importance in shellfish farming, since shellfish do not have specific immunity and they are cultivated in an open environment. Moreover, shellfish are those few animals, which are consumed alive. The increased urbanisation in coastal areas, the intensification of land-based livestock farming and agriculture, industrialisation, the internationalisation of exchanges and the development of aquaculture have led to alterations in shellfish farming and of the environment in which the shellfish are farmed. Emphasis should be given to research strategies relating to epidemiology and mainly towards prevention, which should include concrete and realistic legal texts, efficient surveillance networks, changes in shellfish farming practices, and environmental preservation. There is also a need for efficient checks at the various stages in the production process, taking into account the blooms of toxic phytoplankton. The phytotoxin question also requires further work relating to bloom determination, the development of appropriate and economically viable treatment measures for decontaminating the shellfish and the development of diagnostic tools. A harmonisation of techniques and decision criteria in Europe is also required.

The sea lice and the infectious salmon anaemia (ISA) are still major problems in finfish culture. Immediate impacts at the farm site are not a direct constraint on production now. There is however a need for improved prediction, assessment of wider ecological significance, and carrying capacity studies. Better management practices are also required, which could include elements like improved feeding technology, improved feeds (reduced N and P), high oxygen level, effluent treatment, polyculture. An important issue is the possible replacement of fish oils and protein in the fish feeds. Environmental issues also include (a) the use of substances in disease control (importance of vaccine development), (b) the interaction with wild stocks, and (c) the introduction of species (ballast water, fish and shellfish movements). Major planning and development issues are: (a) the definition of carrying capacity for coastal area, (b) integration of aquaculture into national planning/zoning processes, (c) optimisation of coastal and aquatic resources utilisation. It is also important to provide equity of access to resources.

Consumers will influence the future of aquaculture in positive and negative ways. The health promoting nature of fish is becoming ever more widely recognised, so demand may grow above extrapolations from past trends. The gourmet quality of fish has also been recognised, and with an increasing of leisure, cooking as a pleasure rather than just a necessity is flourishing. With better management of wild fish stocks, more wild fish may be caught and marketed. This would be a huge advantage to consumers, particularly to the poor, it should be recognised however, that conditions for aquaculture would become more difficult. The recognised hazards to health, both microbiological and chemical, are obviously of great concern to consumers, therefore better standards across the industry are essential for consumers protection.

Consumers are increasingly concerned with how their food is being produced. Organic food, which is produced in natural-like conditions, is getting more attention by an increasing segment of the consumers. Clare island Sea Farms operates a truly offshore farm off the west coast of Ireland, where the prevailing wave and tide climate provides unique farming conditions, and gives the salmon farmed there a distinctive character. An agency called Naturland, developed Independent Standards and Certification under EU regulation EEC No.2092/91. Clare Island Organic Salmon were first certified in 1996 by Naturland. The produce has been certified in Ireland, and the farm hopes that will also be certified in France. The farm also applied to the EU for Protective Geographic Indication (PGI) for their produce under the Council Regulation No.2081/92. During the open debate of the conference doubts have been raised about the appropriate standardisation of organic produces.

It has been a typical attitude of aquafarmers, that they tended to be more concerned for their performance and markets than for their integration into the environment. In order to improve their image, the French company Viviers de France (producing 5,000 tons of trout annually) initiated an active and transparent communication with the environmental associations, the authorities and their customers. They are convinced that there will be no more aquaculture (fish and crustaceans) in industrialised countries in the twenty first century if the latter is not correctly integrated into the environment and if it is not able to enhance its image along these lines.

2.3 Closing session

In his closing address, Mr. Steffen Smidt, Director General at the European Commission�s Directorate General for Fisheries stated, that in spite of some constraints, which have been tackled, the future prospects of EU aquaculture is promising. The four main themes, which have arisen during the conference were: (1) marketing; (2) product quality and health; (3) environmental concerns; and (4) socio-economic aspects. As far as marketing aspects are concerned, the increase in production volume is not enough to provide profitability. There is an increasing need for collaboration among farmers and farmers� associations. The improvement of information flow (on price/products on trans-boundary scale) is a key element to solve marketing problems. Fish is healthy food, but may be harmful to the health if not properly produced and handled. There is also a need for appropriate and simple regulatory framework. A "White paper" on public health criteria will be published next year. A coherent and simple (detectable) legislation is also needed regarding environmental issues. Such legislation is under preparation. Measures have to be established also by the industry for which financial support is required. Aquaculture development has an important socio-economic dimension, and it is really true that aquaculture is also about "places and people". The EU provides frameworks to ensure sustainable development of aquaculture, and the conference helped towards promoting these efforts.

3. Recommendations

The European Union through the Directorate General for Fisheries of the Commission plays a significant role in strategic planning and financing aquaculture development in EU countries, however EU aquaculture is an integral part of the all-European aquaculture, and interlinked with various sectors of non-EU countries. The conference underlined the importance of inter-regional cooperation and active exchange of information among all stakeholders of aquaculture development, which will be promoted also by the EU through the new FIFG scheme within the EU region. While there are various fisheries agreements between the EU and some non-EU countries, the information exchange between EU and Central and Eastern European countries is rather poor. This was also evident indicated by their rather limited participation in the Third Thematic Conference. In spite of the great interest of some CEE countries in joining the EU, and intensifying collaboration with EU countries, there were only two participants at the conference from this region. One from Lithuania, and myself, who in fact was a representative of EIFAC. Since the CEE countries are members of EIFAC, more emphasis may be given in the future to provide information to these countries by EIFAC on various EU conferences, and actions, which may account for the interest of these countries. According to my experiences, basic information on EU structure, CFP, FIFG, etc. would also be useful to many colleagues in CEE countries. Although these information are available and accessible through various channels, their simple and summarised presentation (maybe translated to local languages) by EIFAC would contribute to the improvement of information among the fisheries community on all-European level.

The Third Thematic Conference also underlined the needs for collaborative efforts by regulators, resources users, and developers in order to use resources in a responsible way, to improve the supply of healthy and safe aqua-food, and to provide jobs with special regard to peripheral coastal and rural areas. EIFAC is in a unique position to serve the European level collaboration in fisheries and aquaculture development, having a membership circle wider than any other fisheries organisation in Europe, associated closely with governments and the scientific community. EIFAC may give special attention to the strengthening of links between the industry and the scientific community through special workshops and publications, with possible collaboration with FEAP and the EU supported Aquaflow Project.

Annex 5

Synopsis of

Regional Review on Trends of Aquaculture Development in Europe

by László Váradi, Istvan Szucs, Ferenc Pekar, Sergey Blokhin and Imre Csavas

source: NACA/FAO, 2000. Book of Synopses. International Conference on Aquaculture in the Third Millennium, 20-25 February 2000, Bangkok, Thailand; pp: 45-46.

Introduction

The aquaculture sector in Europe is diverse, encompassing traditional artisanal and family shellfish and pond culture operations through medium scale trout and brackishwater fish farm businesses to multinational marine farming companies. The applied production technologies also show a great diversity. However, more than 90% of the aquaculture farms are rather small farms and geographically dispersed throughout Europe. The European aquaculture industry is an emerging, diverse and productive contributor to the region�s food producing sector and has grown significantly over the last two decades. Much of the growth in aquaculture has been stimulated by extensive scientific and technological development work making various forms of production technically and economically viable.

Total aquaculture production of Europe was 1,655,300 t in volume, and 3,800,300 USD in value in 1997. European aquaculture (excluding the states of the former Soviet Union) represented 4.6% of total world aquaculture production in quantity and 5.1% in value in 1997. The share of European aquaculture from world aquaculture production is decreasing since 1984 due to the higher rate of growth in other regions, mainly in Asia, however, it is increasing in absolute terms. Total production was 1.65 million metric tons in 1997, which is 44% higher than in 1988. There has been a relatively high annual growth rate in European aquaculture production between 1984 and 1990, however, the growth slowed down since then. The majority of aquaculture production (72.5%) came from marine waters, while the share of fresh- and brackish waters were only 20.4% and 7.1%, respectively, in 1997. The major cultured species group is salmonids (47% in volume and 60% in value), however, Europe is world leader in the production of some other species as well, like turbot (100%), European eel (99%), mussels (70%), Mediterranean sea bass/sea bream (68%), and trout (54%). The most significant producers in terms of volume are Norway (23%), France (17%), Spain (14%), Italy (13%), these countries provided 67% of the total European production. Carp production in earthen ponds is a dominant form of aquaculture in Central and Eastern European countries, which occupy about 17% of the total land area of Europe, however the share of carps was only 5% in the total production value in 1997.

The marine area from France to Northern Norway offers excellent conditions for aquaculture. The share of this Northern European region was about 52 percent of the total European aquaculture production in 1997 (mainly through the production of Atlantic salmon and shellfish). The culture of salmonids had an impressive development since the early 1980's, and further expansion of the industry is expected in spite of the increasing competition with non-European producers, particularly with Chile. Shellfish production, however, shows little or no increase, and the overall aquaculture development is rather slow in spite of the availability of resources. The size of the European aquaculture industry is relatively small compared to that of poultry and pork. The main constraints to the expansion of coastal aquaculture in this region are the environmental concerns, which in many cases are based on insufficient information. The economic potentials and social benefits of aquaculture may not have been fully recognized, which prevents equitable access for mariculture to the natural resources.

Aquaculture production has been increased almost exponentially in the Mediterranean region in the past fifteen years. The rapid expansion of production was due to technology development and massive investments in the production of Mediterranean sea bass and sea bream in marine cages, but also in lagoons and in land-based tank systems. Market development however, has been much slower than expansion of production, which resulted in oversupply and price decreases (34% in the past three years) In spite of periodic oversupply and considerable price decline, which have been experienced since 1990, the continuation of steady growth is projected in this region. Market constraints, however, which include lack of information on trade and production, uncontrolled trade and imports, quality problems, inefficient promotion, should be eliminated.

The inland areas of Europe have less importance in aquaculture production compared to the coastal areas both in terms of volume and value of production, amounting to 20.4% and 26.3% of the total European aquaculture production in 1997, respectively. However, inland aquaculture plays an important role in rural areas of this region, where pond aquaculture is an important source of fresh fish and provides employment. The main constraint of the development of inland aquaculture is the increasing competition for the limited and vulnerable freshwater resources. Freshwater aquaculture has special importance in Central and Eastern European countries, where aquaculture development is also constrained by structural and economical problems during their transition to market economy. Some special measures, which are related to the enlargement of the EU, may help to alleviate structural problems and economic difficulties in Central and Eastern European countries.

Main issues and constraints

Sustainability. Aquatic resources are finite but the demand on them from various production and service sectors and interests in society are increasing. Growing scarcity is leading to competition between the different users, including fisheries and aquaculture, and this is becoming a main issue all over Europe. The mechanisms and methods for assessing the impacts of various activities on aquatic resources are reasonably well established, but the emerging complex problems are still to be resolved. Therefore, the key problem is the promotion of sustainable use of water resources at an optimal level of exploitation and acceptable to all users. Appropriate strategies for sustainable water resources management should also include social, economical and recreational considerations, as well as biodiversity and natural habitat issues of the wider environment.

Institutional and policy development. While there is a broad and well developed institutional capacity with effective resources and concentrations of skills for aquaculture support in the Western European countries, in Central and Eastern Europe improvement of aquaculture institutional capacity still requires considerable national and international efforts. Although there is a trend towards reduced government intervention in development, centralized regulations are still required to ensure equal allocation and sustainable use of resources. The critical features of aquaculture as a natural resource based sector have been recognized within the EU, and consequently aquaculture will likely to have a more important part in future policies. However, there is still a need to strengthen aquaculture policy in those European countries, where aquaculture is not considered as an equal right user of resources yet. Transnational collaboration and networking in aquaculture research and development should also be improved in order to bring together scientists, producers, regulators and policymakers to facilitate efficient exchange and review of information, new results and advancements in the whole sector.

Technology development. Research and technological development support for aquaculture have largely been focused on technical aspects of production, ignoring important environmental and social linkages. However, sustainable technological development has become the overriding strategic issue in aquaculture as well, and will continue to be such in the foreseeable future. This strategy includes economical, legal, social and physical components and should ensure fair access to resources and mechanisms for conflict resolution. Since technological development has become a complex issue involving many aspects of the prevailing social, economical and environmental conditions, the key element of future competitiveness of aquaculture is the successful adaptation to the above challenges.

Market development. In spite of the substantial differences within the aquaculture sector in various regions of Europe, marketing problems are found to be the major constraint in aquaculture development due to increasing market competition, falling/stable prices and rising costs, and market restructuring throughout Europe. In Central and Eastern Europe, the absorption capacity of local markets have shrunk due to decreased purchasing power, and most of the products from these countries are not competitive on export markets. In spite of the stagnant/declining import of certain aquaculture products to Europe, competition with the relatively cheap imported products also remains one of the constraints of further development of the European aquaculture sector.

Outlook

In spite of a trend towards reduced government intervention in development, there is a need for centralized regulations and coordinated efforts to ensure equitable allocation and sustainable management of resources, and the role of public consensus and participation in decision making will also be increasing.

Integrated river basin, coastal area and landscape management have primary importance, which require multi-sectoral integration with the involvement of various government agencies and stakeholders. The development of institutional capacities still require considerable national and international efforts in Central and Eastern Europe, with special regard to the establishment of fish inspection systems (quality and health control); technical training facilities; business management training; advisory service training and fisheries information systems.

Key issues are to increase the intensity level, to improve product quality and competitiveness of the sector without deterioration of the environment. Technology development should focus primarily on offshore aquaculture, waste-water treatment techniques, alternative protein sources to fish meal and fish oils, and polyculture. The role of science and technology is vital and must be recognized as an essential enabler. Research needs to be promoted in a broad and interlinked manner, and should be guided by strategic considerations.

The improvement of information flow is a basic precondition of overcoming market constraints. Improved market transparency, clearer understanding of market mechanisms, regulatory factors and competitive trends would particularly benefit the small enterprises. The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers will continue to be a very important link among industry representatives, policy makers and scientists.

Species and product diversification should be important elements of future market expansion strategy, however it requires further research on technology development of promising aquatic species, and also on the development of processing technologies.

The improvement of public perception of aquaculture products must be a strategic concern. Besides generic promotion, niche and brand marketing (high quality, exclusive and unique products), the environmental attributes associated with the production process are likely to influence the market expansion in the future.

Inter-regional cooperation will have an increasingly important role in aquaculture development in the coming decades. There has been a relatively active inter-regional exchange of information and collaboration among the various aquaculture institutions and organizations in EU countries, which helps the European aquaculture community to combine their efforts for the improvement of the competitiveness of the sector on a European level. However, there is a slow development in inter-regional cooperation between institutions and organizations in western and eastern part of Europe. The enlargement of the European Union to Central and Eastern Europe gives an historic opportunity for Europe to unite by peaceful means. New instruments will be introduced in favor of the countries in accession: a framework for assistance to agriculture and rural development (SAPARD) and a new programme to support regional policy development (ISPA). The Fifth RTD Framework Programme of the European Union also gives good opportunities to facilitate inter-regional collaboration between the different players of the aquaculture industry. Additional EU-funded specific programmes, such as TEMPUS, INCO-COPERNICUS, PECO-COPERNICUS, NATO-SfP, etc. have also positive effects on the improvement of collaboration and networking among West- and East-European research institutions and universities.

The EASTFISH project proved to be a good initiative to support the development of aquaculture and fish processing in Central and Eastern Europe. International organizations (EU, FAO, EIFAC, EAS) provide basic data and information on aquaculture, and the increased involvement of professionals from Central and Eastern European countries in the work of these organizations would significantly improve broader international cooperation. There is an emerging importance of producer organizations to provide information to farmers with special regard to market and price information. The Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP) became an efficient forum for the exchange of information among its 26 national associations from 21 countries (both EU and non-EU). FEAP also acts as a common forum for these associations to discuss and develop common policies on a wider basis. Those projects, which are aimed at the improvement of information flow through networking are playing more and more important roles in bringing together scientists, producers, regulators and NGOs. Two excellent examples are the EU supported AQUAFLOW Project, which includes 17 countries, and the MARAQUA Project, in which institutions from 16 countries are working in close partnership.

Annex 6

Synopsis of

Regional Review on Trends of Aquaculture Development in the Former USSR Countries

by László Váradi, Sergey Blokhin, Ferenc Pekar, Istvan Szucs and Imre Csavas

source: NACA/FAO, 2000. Book of Synopses. International Conference on Aquaculture in the Third Millennium, 20-25 February 2000, Bangkok, Thailand; pp: 39-45.

Introduction

Total aquaculture production in the former USSR countries amounted to 109,863 metric tons in volume and 278.6 million USD in value in 1997. The contribution of this region to the world total was 0.3% in volume and 0.6% in value. About 92% of the total production is originated from freshwater environment and the main species was common carp (84% of the total production). The two dominant producer countries were the Russian Federation and Ukraine with a share from the total production of 54% and 27%, respectively. The aquaculture production in the countries of the former USSR is well below the peak of 420,000 tons in 1990, when the contribution of this region to the global aquaculture production was 2.6% in volume and 3.2% in value. There was a dramatic decline in aquaculture production in this region after the disintegration of the Soviet Union, and the break up of the state structure. Total aquaculture production in 1997 was only 26% of the production in 1990.

In the former USSR countries aquaculture produced only about 2% of the total production of capture fisheries, which is well below the world average, this fact indicates future potentials of aquaculture development in this region. Although the share of aquaculture from total aquatic production shows a gradual increase globally, there has been an opposite tendency in this region in recent years. The contribution of aquaculture to the total aquatic production in the former USSR countries was 4.2% in 1993, which decreased to 2.2% in 1997. Although fisheries production also decreased after 1990 in this region, it was not as dramatic as in aquaculture. The decrease in fisheries production between 1992 and 1997 was about 17%, in aquaculture it was 51%. Some recovery in aquaculture production could be observed since 1996 in Russia and Uzbekistan, where production increased in 1997 with 29% and 38%, respectively. The increase in these two countries resulted in a 5% increase in aquaculture production for the whole former USSR region. This development also indicates that the aquaculture industry is over the shock and will gradually increase production depending on the changes in the economic environment. It can be foreseen, however, that the full recovery of the aquaculture industry will take a long time.

The 15 countries of the former USSR could be grouped in five sub-regions based primarily on geographic conditions and hydro-climatic homogeneity. These sub-regions are the Russian Federation; the Baltic States (Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania); Eastern Europe (Belarus, Moldova and Ukraine); the Caucasus (Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia); and Central Asia (Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan and Uzbekistan). The share of aquaculture production by sub-regions was the following in 1997: Russian Federation 54.4%, Eastern European states 32.5%, Central-Asian states 8.3%, Caucasian states 2.9% and Baltic states 1.9%. The dramatic decline of aquaculture production was very similar in all regions. The drop in aquaculture production between 1990 and 1997 was 73% in the former USSR region as an average. It was higher in Russia and Central Asia (77%) and lower in the Caucasian states (65%).

Main issues and constraints

Technological. Valuable human resources are readily available for the necessary technological development in aquaculture; however, the main issue is how to mobilize these resources, and how to provide the required technical and financial conditions. Pond fish production technologies would continue to be dominant in freshwater aquaculture, but the gradual development of culture-based fisheries and sea ranching is also expected within the next decades. Marine aquaculture has a scope to develop as well. Cage culture (both freshwater and marine) could be predicted as technological scheme of growing popularity because of increased flexibility in farm management and business planning. In the forthcoming period industrial aquaculture would not have significant share in the overall production, however, taking into account the size of the region, industrial output could be substantial and its role in certain localities could be considerable.

Institutional. Substantial changes are taking place in the institutional system in the region. However, relatively long time is required to reach efficient operation of the new institutions. The differences between countries within the region are sometimes considerable, which concerns not only the current progress, but also previous advancements and traditions. External assistance aimed at the development of the institutional system should continue and even intensify in the future. At the same time, there is an evident need for thorough consideration of pre-history, local specificity, and socio-political factors in such programs. Therefore, any assistance or collaborative programs would be effective only if the level and approach of involved national teams are satisfactory and work of such teams would obtain proper recognition by the national governments and lawmakers.

Socio-economical. The problems of the aquaculture industry in the region are direct consequences of the socio-economical changes in these countries during the transition from centrally planned to market economy. Aquaculture development, therefore, is highly dependent on the consolidation of the socio-economic environment, thus socio-economic aspects should get high priority during the planning of aquaculture development programs. Socio-economic issues vary according to the particular regions: in the LIFD countries poverty alleviation would get the first priority, while in other regions aquaculture development could provide good business opportunities. Aquaculture, which has long tradition in many countries of the region, could contribute significantly to maintain the rural population, to improve their life quality, and to preserve cultural values.

Environmental. Environmental aspects have not been considered properly in the past, and there have been significant environmental degradations in the region. The dominating pond fish production, however, has not been responsible for the deterioration of the environment; it should rather be addressed to other industries. Sustainable development is also an overriding strategic issue in this region, especially in the Russian Federation, Belarus, Ukraine and the Baltic States. Nonetheless, it can be expected that expansion of commercial aquaculture could face occasionally an obstructive feedback from environmentalists dabbled in politics. On the other hand, environmental disorders could hamper aquaculture development, especially related to culture-based fisheries. In some situations, like establishing of new "park-style" facilities for recreational fishing, aquaculture could substantially and directly contribute to the environmental management. In many cases environmental rehabilitation of border or multi-border watersheds, necessary for the development of aquaculture, could be achieved only through intensive international collaboration. Governments need to create an "enabling" environment and accelerate the re-establishment of a respective framework of intergovernmental agreements. The application of the principles of the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries should be encouraged.

Financial and economic. There has been an elongated economical recession in the region, which has affected significantly aquaculture development. Moreover, for a number of countries of the region political stability can be regarded as the precondition for further economical development. Credit availability in these countries can be characterized as relatively high in general, and as in all emerging economies, significant volume of venture capital is present within the region. However, in case of aquaculture, the obstacles for getting financial inputs are represented by unsettled property rights, necessity of relatively long-term credits, and lack of experience of work with the aquaculture sector in financial institutions. In addition, insurance is practically unavailable for aquaculture businesses, except several trial cases in salmon culture. Similarly to agriculture, financial conditions for intensive development of aquaculture include state support in form of tax benefits, state loans, and optional credit availability doctrine. In many countries within the region the credit lines from international developmental and donor agencies are instituted through a number of national banks, but only few examples of aquaculture-related lending can be found.

Market and trade. Huge domestic markets in this area represent good marketing potentials for aquaculture products, not only for fresh but also for frozen and canned products. The estimated demand is considerably higher than the present output of aquaculture. There are substantial variations in consumers' preferences between the countries of the region. Thus carp and Chinese carp species are popular practically everywhere, sturgeon and salmon species can be easily sold in most of the countries, while eel could find buyers mainly in the north-west, and whitefish in the northern area of the region. Production of aquaculture could face growing competition with frozen seafood, traditionally popular in most part of the region. In this connection, significant work should be done to improve the retail patterns in order to bring fresh or freshly processed fish closer to the consumers, to diversify the assortment, and propose wider scale of portioning. There would be an option for the development of specialized aquaculture facilities near big cities, which will supply restaurants with live fish, crustaceans, and products of marine aquaculture, especially in the recreational seashore areas.

Research and development. There is a need for new, demand-led multidisciplinary research programs, which are aiming at specific issues, related to the planned technology developments in the industry, with special regard to the environment and socio-economy. However, research funds have been cut back dramatically, and research infrastructure has also been deteriorated. Further international support and more importantly, collaboration are needed to revitalize scientific resources here for the benefit of the region, as well as for solving of global problems. In the appraisal procedures related to the distribution of both national and international support, the well-established approaches elaborated by international bodies (EU, World Bank and FAO) could be fruitfully employed.

Outlook

The two main directions of aquaculture development in a major part of the former USSR could be the revitalization and development of the existing, formerly prosperous, inland aquaculture sector (mainly pond fish farm complexes) and the further development of culture-based fisheries.

The share of coastal and marine aquaculture may also be increased in the future from the present 8% of volume; however, freshwater aquaculture would remain dominant in this region, taking into account the availability of tremendous freshwater resources. It is doubtful that the freshwater aquaculture sector will regain the previous unity and power it had during the Soviet era. But there is a need for coordinated efforts of all players in aquaculture in order to be competitive with other resource users and to meet the new challenges. The possibility of integration with other resource users (agriculture, industry, tourism, water supply, environment protection, etc.) should be considered as much as possible during the future development of aquaculture. The multi-faceted nature of pond aquaculture and the possible multi-purpose utilization of the earthen ponds offer unique opportunities for aquaculturists to make viable businesses not only through fish production, but also by providing services for other sectors (stocking material for recreational fisheries, operation of angling ponds, etc.). Pond aquaculture, however, would remain a major producer of those species feeding low on the food chain, which is an important aspect in rural areas of the region. Scientists and aquaculturists in this region could play a leading role even on a global scale in the development of innovative fish pond technologies, in which organic waste recycling, appropriate polyculture and "organic production" would be the major elements.

However, as the time is passing after the disintegration of the Soviet Union, there is an urgent need for the acceleration and completion of the establishment of appropriate legislative and institutional framework, the restructuring of the aquaculture sector, stabilization of ownership rights and the improvement of marketing infrastructure.

Inter-regional cooperation is one of the key issues in this region, where former links have been broken or became inefficient after the disintegration of the USSR. However, the reestablishment of formerly prosperous collaborations and the establishment of new cooperative pathways seem to be a rather slow process mainly due to structural and financial problems. Only very few professionals and scientists can afford to attend international aquaculture conferences and other events abroad, and the participation in various international organizations and networks is also very weak. It would be in the interest of the aquaculture sector in the former USSR region and the international aquaculture community both to intensify collaboration, however, this would require substantially more external support in the future. It would also be useful to improve the cooperation in aquaculture development among countries in transition in order to exchange information and learn from each other�s experiences. In spite of some sporadic efforts by a few development organizations, very limited support has been given to stimulate cooperation in aquaculture among the countries in transition, much less than in other regions of the world. These countries have very limited own resources to develop collaboration in aquaculture, and the few local initiatives of limited scope had very little effect on the improvement of the situation.

Professional and personal linkages that survived between the Russian Federation and the new independent states after the disintegration of the USSR provide a good basis for future regional collaboration, even if their content and extent is rather limited presently. The establishment of several producers' associations, in particular the Association of Inland Aquaculture Enterprises is a recent positive development, which improve the exchange of information among aquaculture enterprises within the former USSR countries. In the latest period organization of regional and international aquaculture conferences became regular in Russia, Ukraine and Belarus. Other former USSR countries could also be involved in the work of regional meetings and conferences focusing on selected, high priority topics.

The establishment of databases, including directories of institutions and enterprises, is of great importance in view of the new and complex situation in this region. The first steps in this field were taken within the frame of several international projects (e.g. Sea-World); national fishery databases are under development now in the Russian Federation, Belarus and the Baltic States. Twinning of institutions (within the region and in Europe) would provide an excellent basis for long-term collaboration, which should be encouraged and promoted in the future. In 1997 several aquaculture enterprises, regulatory bodies and research institutions from Ukraine, the Russian Federation, Poland, Belarus and Moldova were joined to establish the International Council for Research and Development Cooperation in Water Bioresources Research and Aquaculture. The Council meetings, which are held annually, are devoted to the problems of development of inland fisheries and aquaculture during the restructuring period and the transition to the market economy.

Although the Russian Federation and the majority of the other countries of the region have joined the main international treaties and actively participate in the work of various international organizations, many countries of the region are not adequately represented in international aquaculture organizations (WAS, EAS, EIFAC, etc.). This situation should be improved for the benefit of both the individual countries and the organizations. The assistance of FAO-EASTFISH, which has been established for stimulating aquaculture businesses in the region, could also be better utilized in the future.