Aquaculture is seen as a promising path for the UAE to achieve its goal of becoming the global leader in food security by 2051. The country currently imports 80% of its food and has a significant seafood market worth $1.4 billion. To reach its food security target, the UAE must invest heavily in aquaculture, embracing innovative and technology-driven practices such as vertical and smart farming. Shaji Baby John, chairman of Kings Infra Ventures, believes that the UAE’s potential for aquaculture is immense and could revolutionize the region’s economy.
There is significant opportunity for collaboration between India and the UAE in the aquaculture sector. The UAE is a key seafood export destination for India, with the potential to transform the global fisheries landscape. By working together, both countries can benefit from enhanced food security, economic prosperity, and access to global markets. In recent years, the UAE has accounted for a small but growing share of India’s seafood exports, particularly in frozen shrimp, highlighting the potential for further collaboration in aquaculture.
Despite its strong seafood consumption, the UAE currently relies heavily on imports, with aquaculture contributing only 2% of the locally consumed fish. This underscores the need for substantial investment in the sector, with the government looking to the private sector to drive growth. John emphasizes the importance of private sector participation in the UAE’s aquaculture development, with a focus on innovation and technological advancement. By attracting Indian aquaculture players and leveraging India’s expertise, the UAE can enhance its aquaculture capabilities and reduce its reliance on imports.
John proposes a three-pronged strategy for the UAE’s aquaculture industry. First, attracting innovative players from India to invest in the UAE and bring advanced solutions such as farm automation and drone management. Second, the UAE should invest in India’s aquaculture landscape, leveraging the country’s FDI norms. Finally, the UAE can position itself as a major re-export center for fish, by investing in processing units and obtaining global certifications. This strategic approach can help the UAE establish itself as a leader in aquaculture production and trade.
The UAE’s strategic location and robust logistics infrastructure, particularly in Dubai, positions it well to become a major re-export hub for fish. John envisions replicating Kings Infra’s Mariculture Eco Park project on a larger scale in the UAE. The park integrates various aquaculture activities under one roof, promoting sustainability and efficiency. Kings Infra has developed proprietary protocols and products to support sustainable shrimp farming, which could be implemented in the UAE’s aquaculture projects. By capitalizing on its strengths and fostering collaboration with Indian partners, the UAE has the potential to transform its aquaculture industry and enhance its food security goals.
