Urgent steps are needed to rejuvenate and secure Canada's aquaculture sector, the trade association that represents the industry is advising federal and provincial agriculture and fisheries ministers in the wake of receiving some of its worst news ever. 

Tim Kennedy, president and CEO of the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance

Tim Kennedy, president and CEO of the Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance (CAIA), highlights the sector's stagnation and recent decline in a letter sent July 11, roughly three weeks after fisheries minister Diane Lebouthillier announced a ban on open-net pen salmon aquaculture in British Columbia, effective June 30, 2029. 

Despite significant improvements in aquaculture practices over the past 45 years, political decisions have undermined established science-based processes, particularly impacting BC salmon farming, he says.

The CAIA leader emphasizes the necessity of government decisions being grounded in objective, peer-reviewed science to restore confidence in the sector. He calls for aquaculture management to be transferred to Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, separating regulatory functions to support the sector's growth better.

Another recommendation is to develop a unified federal-provincial strategy to support aquaculture, including setting national production targets and attracting investment in innovation.

The letter advocates for long-term funding programs for seafood education and marketing to enhance public understanding and support for the industry.

Moreover, it urges leaders to engage with stakeholders, offering practical solutions rather than extreme positions. Recent BC salmon farming situation, driven by activist pressures for a complete ban on open-net pens, exemplifies how extreme policies can harm the sector, Kennedy wrote.