© P.V. Narsimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University
The event, organised by the World Aquaculture Society – Asian Pacific Chapter (WAS-APC) with support from the Government of Telangana and the National Organising Committee, saw more than 3,600 attendees from 63 countries.
The National Organising Committee included the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR), the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB), with strong support from P.V. Narsimha Rao Telangana Veterinary University, the Society of Aquaculture Professionals (SAP) and Marine Product Export Development (MPEDA).
This year’s international trade show featured 110 booths highlighting innovations, technologies, and services from leading companies in India and abroad. Scientific activities underscored the sector’s growing research and development momentum, with 438 abstracts, 298 oral presentations, 76 posters, and 45 technical sessions.
The conference opened on November 11 with the Lighting of the Lamp and welcome remarks. The ceremony was graced by key leaders from WAS-APC, ICAR, PVNRTVU, the Government of Telangana, NFDB, and MPEDA, and other distinguished officials.
Keynote presentations included:
- Dr Modadugu Vijay Gupta, World Food Prize Laureate (2005), speaking on “Indian Aquaculture: Meeting Food and Livelihood Security”
- Dr Manuel Barange, assistant director general, FAO, presenting on “Trends and Projections in Global and Regional Aquaculture: A Blue Transformation”
WAS Awards and WAS-APC Student Awards were also presented, recognising excellence in aquaculture research.
The comprehensive sessions covered feed and nutrition, genetics, disease management, sustainability, market trends and digital innovation. A special farmer-focused session, organised by the NFDB, brought together farmers from across India, while additional sessions were conducted by MPEDA. The exhibition halls offered a dynamic space for networking, technology demonstrations, and partnership development.
In a statement, the organisers said: “WAI 2025 was a tremendous success, highlighting India’s leadership in aquaculture innovation and sustainability. The knowledge exchange and collaboration during the event will significantly strengthen aquaculture development across the Asia-Pacific region. We extend our sincere thanks to all participants for their active involvement. We hope this event has enriched everyone with valuable insights, new technologies, and innovative ideas. We remain committed to continuing this momentum and delivering future events that support learning, innovation, and progress for all.”
The press release also acknowledged key supporters:
“WAS-APC expressed gratitude to its Premier Sponsors – Aker Qrill Company, Avanti, Blue Aqua, Devee Group, INVE Aquaculture, DSM, Syaqua and Zeigler – whose support was instrumental in delivering an outstanding international event.”
With the success of WAI 2025, preparations are already underway for World Aquaculture 2026 (WA2026), scheduled to take place in Singapore. The event will continue the mission of advancing global aquaculture through science, innovation, policy dialogue and industry collaboration.