Global fisheries and aquaculture production reached a record 235 million tonnes in 2024, according to FAO. Aquatic animals represented 195 million tonnes of that total. For the first time, aquaculture produced more than 100 million tonnes of aquatic animals. Its output reached 103 million tonnes, or 53 percent of total aquatic animal production.
Aquatic foods support diets and livelihoods across the world. About 89 percent of aquatic animal output goes to human consumption. The sector supplies at least one-fifth of animal protein for 3.1 billion people. It also supports more than 600 million livelihoods. Trade in aquatic animal products reached $184 billion. However, access remains uneven, especially in Africa. FAO says future growth must protect ecosystems while improving productivity, inclusion and climate resilience.