BRICS nations discuss technology sharing, cold-chain infrastructure, value-added seafood exports and resilient aquatic food systems as India chairs high-level fisheries dialogue

Key Highlights

• BRICS countries account for nearly 70% of global aquaculture production
• India pushes digital fisheries, sustainable aquaculture and resilient seafood value chains
• Members discuss cold-chain infrastructure, processing and intra-BRICS seafood trade
• Proposal gains support for an Inter-BRICS Fisheries Trade Platform
• Focus on AI, drones, satellite monitoring and smart aquaculture systems
• Strong emphasis on food security, sustainable sourcing and climate resilience
• Potential opportunities for seafood exporters, hospitality operators and food processors

India Champions Seafood Trade and Sustainable Aquaculture as BRICS Nations Chart Future Fisheries Roadmap

NEW DELHI, May 29, 2026: India has called for deeper cooperation among BRICS nations to strengthen fisheries, aquaculture and seafood trade, as member countries discussed technology adoption, sustainable production and resilient aquatic food systems during a high-level dialogue chaired by India under the BRICS Agricultural Working Group.

The virtual meeting brought together senior representatives from Brazil, China, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Russia, South Africa and the UAE, alongside experts from international and scientific institutions, to explore collaborative strategies for one of the world’s most important food production sectors.

The discussions carry significant global relevance, as BRICS nations collectively contribute nearly 70% of global aquaculture production and approximately 30% of capture fisheries, making the bloc a major force in global seafood supply chains.

Seafood Trade and Value Chain Development in Focus

A key outcome of the dialogue was the emphasis on strengthening fisheries value chains through improved logistics, cold-chain infrastructure, processing capabilities and trade cooperation.

Participants highlighted the need to reduce barriers to seafood trade while expanding value-added processing and improving market access among BRICS economies.

Several member countries supported the idea of an Inter-BRICS Trade Platform that could facilitate seafood commerce, reduce certification complexities and strengthen South-South trade partnerships.

Industry experts noted that enhanced trade cooperation could create new export opportunities for seafood producers while improving supply chain resilience amid increasing global demand for aquatic foods.

Technology Driving the Next Phase of Aquaculture Growth

The dialogue showcased how emerging technologies are transforming fisheries and aquaculture worldwide.

Countries highlighted advances in artificial intelligence, satellite monitoring, drone surveillance, remote sensing, Internet of Things (IoT) applications and smart aquaculture systems designed to improve productivity, traceability and sustainability.

China reported progress in developing more than 300 new aquatic varieties alongside extensive use of robotics and digital aquaculture technologies. Indonesia highlighted its use of satellite and drone-based monitoring systems under its Blue Economy strategy, while Russia emphasised automation and digital monitoring to improve efficiency and sustainability.

India highlighted its growing adoption of AI-powered solutions, digital fisheries platforms and technology-enabled monitoring systems aimed at strengthening production and exports while improving support for small-scale fishers.

Sustainability and Climate Resilience Become Key Priorities

Climate change, disease outbreaks, biosecurity risks and market volatility emerged as common concerns among member countries.

Delegates agreed on the importance of strengthening aquatic animal health systems, improving disease surveillance and adopting climate-resilient production practices.

The discussions also emphasised responsible resource management, early-warning systems and science-based approaches to fisheries governance as essential tools for ensuring long-term sustainability.

Seaweed cultivation, species diversification, genetic improvement programmes and sustainable hatchery systems were identified as areas with strong potential for future collaboration.

What It Means for Hospitality and Food Businesses

For hotels, restaurants, seafood chains and food service operators, the growing focus on sustainable fisheries and aquaculture could have long-term implications for sourcing, pricing and product availability.

Improved cold-chain infrastructure, enhanced traceability systems and stronger seafood value chains are expected to support higher-quality supplies and reduce post-harvest losses across key producing markets.

As consumer demand for sustainably sourced seafood continues to grow globally, the adoption of digital monitoring and certification systems could also improve transparency across seafood supply chains.

For food processors and exporters, stronger BRICS cooperation may create opportunities to access larger consumer markets while benefiting from technology transfer and knowledge-sharing initiatives.

Opportunities for Tourism and Culinary Experiences

The growth of sustainable fisheries and aquaculture also has implications for culinary tourism, particularly in coastal and seafood-producing destinations.

As countries invest in seafood quality, processing and value-added products, regional cuisines and seafood-based tourism experiences could become increasingly important components of destination development strategies.

Industry observers note that improved infrastructure, sustainable harvesting practices and stronger producer networks can help destinations promote authentic seafood experiences while supporting local livelihoods and environmental conservation.

The dialogue concluded with member nations reaffirming their commitment to deeper cooperation in fisheries and aquaculture, with a shared focus on sustainability, innovation, trade expansion and inclusive economic growth.