Aquaculture in South America and the Caribbean: Market Overview, Key Players, Jobs and Future Perspectives
The aquaculture industry in South America and the Caribbean is experiencing steady growth, driven by increasing demand for seafood, technological advancements, and government incentives for sustainable fish farming. The region benefits from favorable climatic conditions, abundant freshwater resources, and proximity to major seafood markets such as the United States, Europe, and Asia.
Several countries are implementing intensive pond culture systems, cage farming, and integrated shrimp aquaculture, enhancing efficiency and output. Major players include international aquaculture firms, regional producers, and government-backed research initiatives.
Key Markets and Aquaculture Techniques
Costa Rica: Sustainability and Intensive Pond Culture
Costa Rica’s aquaculture sector is centered on tilapia and shrimp production, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and export quality. The country has developed intensive pond culture systems, integrating high-flow aeration technology to improve water oxygenation and maintain high-density farming. Costa Rica’s aquaculture industry aligns with global environmental standards, with many producers seeking Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification to ensure eco-friendly operations.
The industry benefits from government support for sustainable aquaculture, research collaborations, and incentives to enhance the country’s role as a seafood exporter. Costa Rica’s aquaculture output is primarily targeted at North American and European markets.
Colombia: A Major Aquaculture Producer in Latin America
Colombia ranks among the top aquaculture producers in South America, with tilapia, cachama (pacu), and trout leading production. In 2023, the sector produced over 202,000 tons of seafood, despite a slight decline due to sanitary challenges.
The country’s main aquaculture regions include:
· Huila (37% of national production)
· Meta (12%)
· Tolima (9%)
Colombia has invested in intensive pond systems, high-flow water management, and modern aeration technology to maximize production. The government is actively supporting the sector through the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MADR), which provides technical assistance, innovation funding, and export promotion.
A significant challenge for Colombian aquaculture has been disease outbreaks, such as the Streptococcus agalactiae bacteria, which impacted production in Huila, Tolima, and Magdalena. In response, the Colombian Agricultural Institute (ICA) declared a sanitary emergency and implemented biosecurity measures.
Despite these setbacks, the industry remains a key contributor to the economy, generating 250,000 jobs and significant export revenues, particularly from tilapia, shrimp, and trout. Exports reached $134.3 million in 2023, showing growth in both volume and value.
Jamaica: Developing Intensive Pond Systems for Tilapia and Shrimp
Jamaica has been modernizing its aquaculture industry, focusing on intensive pond culture systems for tilapia and freshwater shrimp. The country has integrated high-flow aeration systems to improve production and sustainability.
Government initiatives have encouraged public-private partnerships to drive investment in the sector. Jamaica is also developing its export capabilities, aiming to expand sales of farmed seafood to international markets.
Honduras: Rapid Growth in Cage Culture and Integrated Shrimp Farming
Honduras is one of the fastest-growing aquaculture producers in Central America, leveraging a combination of cage culture, intensive ponds, and shrimp aquaculture. The country has capitalized on its coastal resources to expand large-scale shrimp farming, mainly for export to the U.S. and Europe.
Producers in Honduras are adopting integrated aquaculture techniques, combining fish farming with shrimp production to optimize resource use and increase profitability. Government programs are promoting investments in sustainable and high-yield aquaculture technologies to support growth in the sector.
Key Players in the South American and Caribbean Aquaculture Industry
· Cermaq Group AS – A global leader in salmon farming.
· JBS S.A. – A Brazilian food giant involved in seafood processing.
· Mowi ASA – A major producer of farmed Atlantic salmon.
· Thai Union Group PCL – A multinational seafood company expanding its Latin American operations.
Local players include regional cooperatives, independent farms, and government-supported research initiatives focused on improving aquaculture technology and sustainability.
Market Trends and Future Perspectives
1. Growth in Sustainable Aquaculture
Consumer demand for eco-friendly and certified seafood is driving the adoption of Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP), Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC), and GlobalGAP certifications across Latin America. Sustainable practices such as recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) and biofloc technology are gaining traction.
2. Expansion of Export Markets
South American and Caribbean aquaculture producers are focusing on increasing exports to the U.S., Europe, and Asia. Shrimp, tilapia, and salmon remain the most in-demand products internationally.
3. Technological Innovations in Pond and Cage Farming
Advancements in automated feeding systems, disease monitoring, and high-efficiency aeration are enhancing aquaculture productivity. Countries like Colombia, Costa Rica, and Honduras are leading the way in adopting high-flow rate pond culture systems to increase output.
4. Challenges: Disease Control and Climate Impact
· Disease outbreaks (e.g., bacterial infections in Colombia) pose a significant risk to production.
· Climate variability and extreme weather events can disrupt aquaculture operations.
· Rising feed costs are a challenge for small and medium-scale producers.
5. Government Support and Investment Opportunities
Governments in Colombia, Costa Rica, Jamaica, and Honduras are investing in technical training, financial assistance, and regulatory support to expand aquaculture. Foreign investment in sustainable seafood production and export infrastructure is also increasing.
Critical Skills and Job Market in the Aquaculture Industry
The aquaculture job market in South America and the Caribbean is expanding as demand for skilled professionals grows across technical, operational, and management roles. The industry seeks professionals with expertise in fish health management, water quality monitoring, and sustainable farming technologies, as well as specialists in business development and international seafood trade.
Technical Roles: Required Skills
· Aquaculture Engineers & Technicians – Expertise in intensive pond systems, high-flow aeration, and water recirculation technology.
· Aquatic Veterinarians & Biologists – Skills in disease prevention, biosecurity measures, and fish nutrition to mitigate outbreaks such as Streptococcus agalactiae in Colombia.
· Farm Operators & Hatchery Managers – Knowledge of pond and cage culture techniques, stocking density management, and automated feeding systems.
Management & Commercial Roles
· Finance Managers – Oversee financial planning, cost optimization, and investment strategies for aquaculture firms.
· General Managers – Lead aquaculture operations, ensuring production efficiency, regulatory compliance, and business expansion.
· Production Managers – Oversee large-scale shrimp, tilapia, and trout farms, ensuring optimal yields and compliance with ASC, BAP, and GlobalGAP certifications.
· Supply Chain & Export Managers – Expertise in seafood logistics, cold chain management, and trade regulations for markets such as the U.S., Europe, and Asia.
· Sales & Business Development Executives – Focus on expanding markets, securing retail partnerships, and positioning farmed seafood brands for export growth.
How GateSource HR Can Help
GateSource HR specializes in sourcing top talent for the aquaculture industry across Latin America and the Caribbean. With expertise in executive search and recruitment, we assist companies in finding highly skilled professionals, including finance managers, general managers, aquaculture engineers, and supply chain specialists. Our extensive network and industry knowledge ensure we match the right candidates with the right roles, helping businesses drive growth and innovation in the sector.
