SC Commences Phased Closure of Chinese Operations in Strategic Move
Sustainable seafood movement enthusiasts are keeping a close eye on the latest updates in the sector, including initiatives and certifications promoting sustainability. On March 27th, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) revealed its plan to halt operations in China. Currently, ASC's website indicates that there are 30 farms in China with ASC certification. These farms predominantly cultivate bivalves and tilapia, with one specifically listed for shrimp production.
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In the last 18 months, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) conducted an extensive strategic review of its internal operations and operational regions and markets, stated ASC Global Press Manager Sophia Balod-Lorenzo. As a result, ASC has decided to phase out program operations and discontinue investments in China, redirecting resources to regions and activities where it believes it can have a more significant impact. However, ASC noted that its position might evolve following future business reviews. Despite inquiries, ASC declined to provide further comment or information.
Meanwhile, the Global Shrimp Alliance (GSA), operating under the Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification, responded to criticisms regarding the failure to detect alleged forced labor in Indian shrimp farms or Chinese seafood processing plants during BAP audits. GSA CEO Wally Stevens acknowledged the distressing reports of worker abuses and emphasized that certification, while valuable, has limitations. The GSA is now investigating its internal processes to uphold high enforcement standards across its network.
In other news, the Pedro Bank Jamaica Queen Conch Industrial Dive Fishery has achieved Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification for sustainable fishing, marking the first conch fishery worldwide and the first fishery in Jamaica to receive this certification. MSC Americas Director Erika Feller commended the fishery's commitment to sustainable practices and environmental stewardship.
Additionally, the Aquaculture Stewardship Council partnered with seafood producer Blue Ocean Mariculture, based in Kona, Hawaii, to host an event at the annual SXSW Conference titled "Aloha Austin: A Certified Seafood Feast." The event, held on March 12 and 13, featured Blue Ocean Mariculture's ASC-certified Hawaiian kanpachi products, showcasing a variety of dishes to nearly 150 seafood industry leaders and influencers.