Fishing & Aquaculture Middle East Exhibition 2011

The Middle East is enjoying a growing population base, driving increased food consumption trends. Traditionally, per capita consumption of seafood has been high and with recent financial prosperity, increased tourism and education regarding the health benefits of consuming fish, total seafood consumption is increasing annually.

Modern transport and logistics practices have grown these markets from coastal areas to encompass substantial inland and remotely located populations. As a consequence, fresh and processed seafood products are now widely available throughout all Middle East countries.

The abundant fishing resources of the Arabian Gulf provide for a substantial fishing industry, however, reflecting the current global environment, the responsible management of this industry and its finite resource is paramount. Availability of capital and recent commitment in the region to sustainable management of natural fishing resources has encouraged investments in major aquaculture projects.