The U.S. aquaculture industry achieved $1.9 billion in total sales in 2023, reflecting a 26 percent increase since 2018, according to the newly released 2023 Census of Aquaculture by the USDA’s National Agricultural Statistics Service (NASS).
In 2023, the number of U.S. aquaculture farms rose to 3,453, up 18 percent from 2018. Five states - Mississippi, Washington, Louisiana, Florida, and Alabama - dominated the sector, contributing 55 percent of total sales and hosting nearly half of all aquaculture farms. Food fish, led by catfish, accounted for $819.6 million in sales, while molluscs reached $575.5 million. Crustaceans also saw remarkable growth, with sales jumping 75 percent to $175.7 million.
“This census offers vital insights into the U.S. aquaculture sector, supporting informed decisions by stakeholders and highlighting the industry’s role in food security, sustainability, and restoration,” said NASS administrator Joseph L. Parsons, in a press release.
Detailed results from the 2023 Census of Aquaculture, including data on production methods, water use, and sales channels, are available here.
