SINGAPORE — The World Aquaculture Singapore 2026 (WA2026) conference and exhibition has successfully concluded, establishing a definitive roadmap for innovation, food security, and responsible aquaculture development worldwide. Jointly organized by the World Aquaculture Society (WAS) and its Asian Pacific Chapter (WAS-APC), the prestigious event was hosted by the Singapore Food Agency (SFA). It drew robust support from elite academic and institutional partners, including AquaPolis, James Cook University, Nanyang Technological University, National University of Singapore, Republic Polytechnic, Singapore Institute of Technology, and Temasek Polytechnic.
A Global Nexus for High-Yield Aquaculture Innovation
Centering on the pivotal theme, “Advancing High-Yield Production Through Nutrition, Health, Genetics, and Resources,” WA2026 solidified Singapore’s standing as a premier global hub for cutting-edge technology and sustainable aquaculture practices. The landmark event brought together over 2,000 international delegates , bridging the gap between researchers, industry leaders, policymakers, producers, and students.
Complementing the academic discourse, the international trade exhibition featured more than 100 specialized booths. Exhibitors showcased groundbreaking technologies, advanced equipment, and modern services, driving the evolution of global aquaculture value chains.
Unparalleled Scientific and Technical Exchange
The conference boasted an exceptionally rigorous scientific program, drawing 550 submitted abstracts. This included 381 compelling oral presentations, 169 dynamic e-posters, and 40 technical sessions that collectively mirrored rapid breakthroughs in aquaculture sciences.
The official opening ceremony on June 3, 2026, featured high-profile opening remarks from Dr. Janil Puthucheary, Senior Minister of State for the Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment and the Ministry of Education, Singapore. Dr. Puthucheary was joined by WAS President Dr. Wendy Sealy, SFA CEO Mr. Damian Chan, and Organizing Co-Chair Dr. Farshad Shishehchian. Dr. Janil’s address strongly emphasized how cross-border collaboration and structural innovation are imperative to fortifying global food infrastructure.
Industry Insights and Immersive Technical Tours
Keynote sessions addressed urgent sector challenges and emerging market dynamics. Notably, Richard Barry, Director of Programs at the National Fisheries Institute (USA), offered an in-depth analysis of U.S. seafood market trends, focusing on evolving consumer behavior and trade complexities. Parallel sessions delved deeply into climate resilience, aquatic animal health, alternative feed ingredients, and advanced disease diagnostics. Special tracks curated by the SFA and AquaPolis cast a spotlight on Singapore’s unique, rapidly growing aquaculture ecosystem.
A major highlight was the farm and technical tour program. Attendees gained exclusive, first-hand exposure to modern aquaculture facilities in action. The guided shrimp and trout farm tours showcased advanced methodologies in breeding, hatchery management, and automated production. Furthermore, participants observed sophisticated R&D applications, including nucleic acid extraction, DNA/RNA analysis, and advanced water quality management systems.
Celebrating Excellence and Looking Toward APA2027
The event also served to celebrate excellence across research and academia through the presentation of the prestigious World Aquaculture Society Awards and the WAS-APC Student Awards, empowering the next generation of industry pioneers.
The organizers expressed deep gratitude to premier sponsors—including Zeigler, Blue Aqua, Aqua group, Qrill Aqua, Pharmaq by Zoetis, INVE, and Devee Group —alongside the steering committee, volunteers, and delegates whose dedication ensured the event’s resounding success.
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Looking forward, the momentum established at WA2026 will carry into the Asian Pacific Aquaculture 2027 (APA2027). Scheduled for September 7–10, 2027, at Nha Trang University, Vietnam, the upcoming conference will continue to drive international cooperation and sustainable growth across the sector. For ongoing updates and details, visit www.was.org.
Editor at the digital magazine AquaHoy. He holds a degree in Aquaculture Biology from the National University of Santa (UNS) and a Master’s degree in Science and Innovation Management from the Polytechnic University of Valencia, with postgraduate diplomas in Business Innovation and Innovation Management. He possesses extensive experience in the aquaculture and fisheries sector, having led the Fisheries Innovation Unit of the National Program for Innovation in Fisheries and Aquaculture (PNIPA). He has served as a senior consultant in technology watch, an innovation project formulator and advisor, and a lecturer at UNS. He is a member of the Peruvian College of Biologists and was recognized by the World Aquaculture Society (WAS) in 2016 for his contribution to aquaculture.
