ASC, Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana Sign MoU to Boost Sustainable Fish Farming
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The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and the Chamber of Aquaculture Ghana (COA) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to promote sustainable and traceable fish farming in Ghana. The agreement introduces the ASC’s Improver Programme to local farms, helping them align with international aquaculture standards and improve access to global markets.
Step-by-Step Support for Local Farms
At the core of the partnership is ASC’s Improver Programme—a structured support system for farms that are not yet ready for full certification. The programme guides farms through practical improvements in sustainability, food safety, and social responsibility.
A key outcome of the collaboration is the development of a Ghana-specific Code of Good Practices (CoGP), tailored to local realities but informed by the ASC’s global standards and multi-stakeholder input.
Better Market Access and Investment Potential
According to Jacob Adzikah, CEO of COA, the programme will position Ghanaian aquaculture businesses for international trade by supporting certification readiness. “This project can help attract new investment into the industry and improve our competitiveness in the global seafood market,” he said.
Focus Areas of the Partnership:
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Traceability and Transparency: The CoGP and Aquaculture Improvement Project (AIP) will strengthen traceability systems, giving buyers and consumers greater visibility into product origins.
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Market Preparation: Farms will be better equipped to meet certification standards, opening doors to export markets where certified seafood is in demand.
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Sustainability and Social Responsibility: Farms will receive guidance on improving environmental practices and working conditions.
Roy van Daatselaar, Head of ASC’s Improver Programme, described the agreement as “a foundation for positioning Ghana as a regional leader in responsibly farmed seafood.” He added that the CoGP will empower farmers with practical tools and knowledge to improve operations and meet global sustainability expectations.
The ASC-COA partnership is seen as a significant step towards strengthening Ghana’s aquaculture industry and its contribution to food security, environmental protection, and economic growth.
Also read: COAG to Host Aquaculture Ghana This October, 2025 in Accra
