By: Staff Writer
June 19, 2026
The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations said in their State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2026 – Latin America and the Caribbean report that Latin America and the Caribbean recorded a trade surplus of USD 21 billion in 2024, driven by exports in high-value farmed shrimp and salmon as well as fishmeal, accounting for a large share of total trade from the region.
The report also noted: “Fisheries and aquaculture production of aquatic animals is projected to grow by 8.3 percent by 2034, largely driven by aquaculture (+26.2 percent).”
“The Latin America and Caribbean region plays a critical role in supplying fisheries and aquaculture products to global markets, supported by highly productive marine ecosystems and a fast-growing aquaculture sector. FAO supports countries across the region through technical cooperation initiatives that promote innovation, sustainability, and value chain development, for example through the introduction of innovative technologies in Peru’s shrimp farming sector and the promotion of sustainable seaweed farming,” says Rene Orellana Halkyer, Assistant Director-General and FAO Regional Representative for Latin America and the Caribbean.
The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2026 provides the most up-to-date data and information, on trends, challenges, opportunities and innovations shaping the sector. It also assesses the state and health of marine fishery resources.
Widely recognized as a leading reference for policymakers, resource managers, scientists, producers, industry stakeholders and civil society, the report offers a global perspective on the role of aquatic food systems in food security, nutrition, livelihoods and sustainable development.
This edition presents tangible progress towards Blue Transformation, highlighting how countries and partners are turning ambition in action through innovation, science, responsible management, and community engagement. Through stories and examples from around the world, the report shows how these efforts are advancing sustainable fisheries and aquaculture, strengthening resilient and efficient value chains and contributing to more sustainable, inclusive and resilient aquatic food systems.
The report also said: “Marine fisheries account for 98 percent of regional fisheries catches. Production is supported by the highly productive Humbolt current system in the Southeast Pacific. However, catches, particularly small pelagic stocks like anchoveta, are variable due to oceanographic conditions associated with El Niño-Southern Oscillation System (ENSO).
“Fisheries and aquaculture support over 3 million jobs in the primary sector, with marine fisheries accounting for around 73 percent of total employment, sustaining livelihoods across coastal communities.
“Total aquatic animal food availability has grown rapidly since 1961 (+2.9 percent per year), but per capita levels remain about half the world average.