This paper reviews the current practices in Asian aquaculture and emerging trends in species and systems against a backdrop of changing structure of demand, supply and trade. It examines key issues concerning the role of aquaculture as an engine for economic growth in rural areas of developing Asia. Taking examples from South and Southeast Asia, the paper also analyzes the prospects and needs of the sector by identifying key technological, socioeconomic, and policy factors that will enhance its role in providing animal protein, employment, income, and foreign exchange to the economy and its population.