About the report The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA) is the flagship publication of the FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Department. This premier advocacy document is published every two years to provide policy-makers, civil society and those whose livelihoods depend on the sector a comprehensive, objective and global view of capture fisheries and aquaculture, including associated policy issue. The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture (SOFIA) 2026 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. 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. Key points Global fisheries and aquaculture production is at a record high, but ensuring sustainable and equitable growth remains a major challenge. Global fisheries and aquaculture production reached a new record of 235 million tonnes in 2024, confirming the sector’s expanding role in feeding a growing global population. Aquaculture is the main driver of growth in aquatic food systems. While production remains concentrated in Asia, other regions such as Africa hold significant untapped potential. World aquaculture production of aquatic animals and algae reached a new record of 142 million tonnes in 2024, confirming its increasing contribution to global supply of aquatic foods. Global capture fisheries production remains stable, but concern over the state of marine fishery stocks persists, underscoring the urgent need to scale up. In 2024, capture fisheries production remained stable at 92 million tonnes (excluding algae), continuing its long-term pattern of fluctuation within the range of 86 and 94 million tonnes since the late 1980s. Aquatic foods are essential for nutrition, and their rise in availability for human consumption continues to outpace population growth globally, yet their benefits remain inequitably distributed across regions. Aquatic foods make an ever-increasing critical contribution to human nutrition, providing essential micronutrients, omega-3 fatty acids and high-quality proteins that support healthy diets Trade in aquatic products continues to expand, reflecting strong global demand and greatly contributing to economic development and higher nutrition levels. In 2024, global trade in aquatic products reached USD 186 billion – comprising USD 184 billion in aquatic animal products and USD 2 billion in algae and other aquatic products – and involved 230 countries and territories. Future growth in aquatic animal production will be mainly driven by aquaculture, and its sustainability will depend on efficiency, innovation and equitable access. FAO projections to 2034 indicate continued growth in fisheries and aquaculture production, consumption and trade, with total aquatic animal production expected to reach 214 million tonnes. Investment, effective governance and innovation are key to transforming aquatic food systems towards greater sustainability and productivity. Without sufficient progress in these areas, growth will outpace equity and sustainability. Targeted investment, innovation and strong policy frameworks are essential to scale up aquaculture production, while minimizing social, economic and environmental impacts, especially in regions with capacity constraints. Source : FAO Related resources To view the complete report, The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2026.