14 MARCH 2026 • WORLD AQUACULTURE • WWW.WAS.ORG We are guided by targeted research, skilled people, and close collaboration with the aquaculture industry. We make aquaculture progress With global expertise and a strong local presence, we work to improve fish health and welfare — supporting a more sustainable future for aquaculture. www.pharmaq.com CHAPTER REPORTS Korean Chapter MOF Releases the Third Fisheries and Fishing Villages Development Master Plan (2026 to 2030), Emphasizing High Value Aquaculture and Climate Risk Reduction South Korea’s Ministry of Oceans and Fisheries (MOF) announced the Third Fisheries and Fishing Villages Development Master Plan (2026 to 2030). For aquaculture, MOF frames the plan as rebuilding competitiveness from the basics while reducing climate driven risks. The plan proposes relocating coastal mariculture sites farther offshore, identifying new farming areas in the cooler East Sea, and accelerating land based smart aquaculture centered on high value species. MOF further emphasizes smart aquaculture clusters to move from on-site demonstration toward equipment development, market access, and tailored growth support for businesses. On seed and juvenile supply, MOF highlights an end to end approach for strategic items such as flounder and gim, linking selective breeding and seed development with intermediate nursery stages, production, and distribution. (Source: MOF press release; Korea Policy Briefing, January 29, 2026.) Busan Begins Building Korea’s Smart Aquaculture Big Data Center with Generative AI Consulting and a Data Marketplace The City of Busan launched the Smart Aquaculture Big Data Center project to integrate smart aquaculture with big data and accelerate digital transformation. The project will run for 18 months, from December 2025 to June 2027, with a total budget of USD 7.4 million, consisting of USD 5.2 million in national funding and USD 2.2 million in municipal funding. The center will be located at Pukyong National University’s Yongdang Campus. A notable feature is the integration of generative AI to provide farm specific consulting and automation services. The center will also build functions for AI and aquaculture model development, a data marketplace service platform, workforce training, startup and employment support, and an integrated monitoring (CONTINUED ON PAGE 16)
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