An international evaluation of biosecurity management capacity in the seaweed aquaculture industry

Knowledge, Attitudes, Perception and Willingness-To-Pay for Animal Welfare and Environmentally Friendly Certified Salmon Products in Chile: The Case of Bio Bio District

Aquaculture is expanding rapidly to meet growing protein demands, now providing over 50% of aquatic animal food. Salmon farming is especially important in Chile due to its favorable conditions and cost advantages. However, the industry faces challenges, including environmental sustainability and public perception. This study surveyed 396 people aged 18-65 in Chile's Bio Bio region about their knowledge and views on salmon farming and animal welfare. Results showed limited public understanding: 76% were unaware of information sources, and 52% were unsure of the industry's national role. Many viewed the industry as nontransparent, environmentally harmful, and poorly regulated, though its economic impact led to general acceptance. Knowledge of animal welfare was low-43% reported little or none-but support for better protections was high: 97% favored stronger welfare measures and 94% wanted more information. While 92% showed interest in welfare-certified salmon, only 21% were willing to pay up to 5% more. The study underscores the importance of public education and transparency to foster support for sustainable and welfare-conscious aquaculture.

China's growing influence in the global carrageenan industry and implications for Indonesia

China has reconfigured the global value chains of a wide range of commodities. This includes carrageenan, a polysaccharide extracted from specific types of red seaweeds used as a gelling and thickening agent in a wide range of applications. In the past 20 years, China has moved to centre stage in the global carrageenan processing sector, with wide-ranging implications for seaweed producing nations and farmers. This is especially the case for Indonesia, a pivotal carrageenan seaweeds producer that exports almost all seaweed to China, cemented by large Chinese investments in processing in Indonesia. Despite the importance, there is a dearth of studies on the Chinese domestic industry and associated trade and investment flows. This study fills the gap by triangulating a range of detailed industry, statistical and interview data, in multiple language sources. It finds that Chinese trade and investment linkages is of net benefit to Indonesia but that Indonesian government agencies at both central and local levels can begin to introduce terms in their favour.