2.1.2.2. Diversification: Aquaculture, a sector with potential
Marine aquaculture is a sector which is expanding rapidly in Europe and has
high potential for growth in the context of food production.
However, the islands of the Azores find it difficult to attract private investors to
invest in this area because the commercially successful species produced in the
European Union do not exist in the Azores (such as sea bass, sea bream and
turbot). This is further compounded by the fact that weather conditions in the
Azores hinder the installation of offshore establishments.
Despite these constraints, it is hoped that technological progress in the sector
will make it possible, in the near future, to introduce this business area, more
specifically in the segment of algae and crustaceans.
In this regard, the Department of Oceanography and Fishing of the University of
the Azores has developed pilot research projects aimed at perfecting
reproduction techniques, genetic improvement, nutrition and the growth of
species such as barnacles and abalones.
In the 2014-2020 time frame, aquaculture will thus be an important area for the
diversification of activities linked to the sea, in a quest for new business areas
which do not conflict with efforts to preserve fish stocks. It is essential to ensure
a high level of environmental protection, health and wellbeing of the stock as
well as public safety and health.