ASC Signs MoU with South Korea’s National Institute of Fisheries Science to Advance Responsible Seafood Farming

Haenam, South Korea – Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with South Korea’s National Institute of Fisheries Science (NIFS), a leading aquaculture and marine environmental research institute under the Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries.

This agreement marks a significant milestone in the transformation to responsible seafood farming, strengthening international collaboration and driving sustainable growth within Korea’s seafood farming sector.

During the signing ceremony, ASC CEO Chris Ninnes emphasised the global relevance of this partnership, “This is an important step forward in strengthening international partnerships and advancing responsible seafood farming practices that benefit fish, farm, people and planet. Together, we are setting a new standard for the future of Korea’s seafood sector through environmental and social responsibility.”

NIFS President Choi Yong-seok said, “With the fisheries industry undergoing rapid changes due to climate change and other factors, this MOU serves as a starting point for transitioning to eco-friendly aquaculture industry.

We hope that this collaboration with the ASC will present a standard model for sustainable aquaculture and strengthen the export competitiveness of Korean farmed seafood.”

The agreement aligns with the missions of both organisations to promote responsible seafood farming, support biodiversity, benefit communities, and meet the growing global demand for sustainably farmed seafood.

Under the MoU, ASC and NIFS will work together to:

• Develop innovative aquaculture technologies for seaweed, shellfish, and fish;
• Facilitate information exchange between international and Korean experts;
• Create ecosystem-based certification technologies; and
• Improve seafood farming conditions to support long-term environmental and economic sustainability.