Fish is one of the most important sources of animal protein and micronutrients in Myanmar with average consumption levels estimated to be 30 kg/person/year. However, with significant levels of malnutrition in the country, these figures are likely to hide a large diversity of consumption patterns.
The fisheries sector in Myanmar provides employment to 3.2 million people with inland and marine fisheries making up nearly 78 percent of Myanmar’s fish production. Aquaculture has grown significantly in the past decade, now responsible for 22 percent of annual fish production. The contribution of aquaculture to total fish consumption remains low compared to neighboring Thailand (80 percent) and Bangladesh (55 percent), indicating the relative importance of capture fisheries, and potential for future growth of the sector.
We are working with the Government of Myanmar and other partners to create a policy environment to improve fisheries management and capture more economic, social and environmental benefits for the long term.
Our integrated research and development program is endorsed by the government and also seeks to unlock the potential for growth in aquaculture. Scaling-up smallholder aquaculture can bring benefits like better incomes, nutrition and health.
Strengthening fisheries governance is another important objective which will require the development of new policies, laws, better management practices and institutional arrangements that secure rights for small-scale fishers and can balance ecological and human needs.