The Standard is Changing: Join ASC at Seafood Expo Global 2025

A groundbreaking transformation for responsible seafood farming is set to unfold at the Seafood Expo Global (SEG) 2025 in Barcelona.

This significant shift will commence on 7 May 2025 with the unveiling of the ASC Farm Standard, propelling advancements for fish, farms, people, and the planet. This initiative represents a crucial leap toward sustainable seafood production on a global scale.

Keynote Insights from Industry Leaders

ASC CEO, Chris Ninnes, encourages attendees to participate in the expo: “If you’re attending the expo, please join us to discover how we will drive positive change across the industry.”

He added, “I’m thrilled to announce that we will be joined on stage by Global Salmon Initiative (GSI) CEO Sophie Ryan, Nomad Foods Group Sustainability Manager Oliver Spring, and Sainsbury’s Head of Sustainability, David Parker. Together, we will explore the Farm Standard and its implications for the supply chain, accelerating the progress toward a sustainable seafood future.”

Choose change and reserve your seat now!

Understanding the Need for Change

As the global leader in aquaculture certification, ASC aims to set new benchmarks for the seafood industry.

With the global population projected to reach 10 billion by 2050, and wild-caught fisheries nearing capacity, the importance of sustainable seafood farming is more crucial than ever. The environmental and social impacts of the aquaculture industry require urgent attention.

The ASC Farm Certification Programme has been developed through extensive collaboration, consultations, and scientific research, aiming to enable farms to operate efficiently while prioritizing fish welfare, worker rights, community stability, and environmental sustainability.

Changes with the ASC Farm Standard

The ASC Farm Certification Programme will undergo a significant evolution, consolidating multiple species-specific standards into a unified framework.

This comprehensive approach aims to:

• Facilitate a holistic understanding of fish welfare.
• Adapt to evolving market, consumer, and regulatory demands.
• Uphold strengthened requirements for worker and community protections.
• Implement a science-based standard focused on biodiversity conservation and environmental impact minimization.

Benefits for the Supply Chain

With a rising consumer preference for responsibly farmed seafood, the ASC Farm Standard provides a competitive edge for producers committed to sustainability. By adopting the ASC Farm Standard, stakeholders can expect to:

• Enhance their ability to meet market expectations.
• Increase supply chain credibility.
• Future-proof operations against regulatory changes.

Support for Transitioning Producers

To ensure a smooth adoption of the ASC Farm Standard, a two-year transition period will begin in May 2025, allowing producers to:

• Opt for early adoption while current species standards remain active.
• Access training resources and tools for a seamless transition.
• Receive recognition as early adopters, showcasing best practices.

For more information, visit our source press release.

Main Image: ASC booth at SEG Barcelona 2024 | Source: ©ASC_Group