In 2023, the European Union witnessed a collective aquaculture output of approximately 1.1 million tonnes, a diverse assortment of fish, molluscs, algae, and crustaceans. Europe’s top contributors—Spain, France, and Greece—dominated the scene, according to recent Eurostat data. However, Cyprus finds itself further down the list, ranking 19th with a production of 5,700 tonnes, trailing significantly behind Malta, positioned at 11th with 20,803 tonnes.

Leading the charge, Spain reached a notable 242,754 tonnes, and alongside France at 186,561 tonnes and Greece at 140,908 tonnes, they form the trinity of aquaculture powerhouses in the EU. These three nations collectively command a major share of the sector, capturing 23.1%, 17.8%, and 13.4% respectively of the union’s output.

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Cyprus’s contribution, although modest in comparison, still sums up to €39 million of EU’s €4.8 billion aquaculture production market. Interestingly, current economic dynamics may play a pivotal role in shaping future opportunities in Cyprus’ sectors.

A Journey Of Ebb And Flow

Cyprus saw its aquaculture volumes rise from 3,776 tonnes in 2008 to a peak of 7,346 tonnes in 2018, only to dip back by 2023. The fluctuations reflect a regional pattern as well, where Greece experienced growth, Spain encountered a downtrend post-2018, and France remained relatively stable.

The EU’s aquaculture production primarily centers around finfish—like trout, seabream, seabass, carp, tuna, and salmon—as well as molluscs including mussels, oysters, and clams, with mussels leading at 34.5%. Trout, seabass, and gilthead seabream featured prominently in terms of economic value too, pinning down the top three slots amongst valuable species.