New agreements essential for India-Japan aquaculture cooperation

Japan should accelerate imports from India that generate India's domestic source of capital. India needs to press Japan in this respect.

- SUNIL CHACKO

TOKYO: Japan, an island nation and the world's largest seafood consumer per capita, is a world leader in aquaculture. India is a rising power in seafood aquaculture, especially in land pond aquaculture. In total size India is second only to China in farmed fish, such as carp. Across the food supply chain from feed availability to processing, all are in place in India, and India grows the grains and produces other nutrients essential for feed.

India and Japan have no political differences, and indeed India was among the leading countries that helped to build Japan's post-War international presence, and today both are leading members of the Quad and G-20.

As non-vegetarians transition to greater seafood-intensive protein sources, considered healthier because of components such as Omega-3 fatty acids that lower triglycerides, therefore considered better for heart health worldwide, instituting best practices in aquaculture is essential to safeguard water bodies, land, ensure antibiotics-free feed and boost foreign currency earnings. Given the rising demand, closer cooperation between India and Japan on aquaculture can have multifarious benefits such as cost-effective production, lowered mortality, and enhanced water and energy management.