LACQUA23 will be the 2023 Annual meeting of the Latin American & Caribbean Chapter of WAS. Following upon the previous successful LACQUA meetings, LACQUA23 will bring back international attention to the aquaculture industry of Panama and Latin America. LACQUA23 will be held in Panama City, the capital of Panama. Panama is a cosmopolitan, dynamic city, where the modern and the traditional come together to create a cheerful and relaxed atmosphere. Panama, the hub of the Americas, makes a great venue for LACQUA23. The aquaculture sector of Panama (fish and shrimp together) is one of the main export items of the country. The most cultivated species in Panama are fish (tilapia, cobia, pámpano) and shrimp.

Darwin is proud to be hosting World Aquaculture for Australia for the fi rst time since 2014. This annual event will incorporate the Australiasian Aquaculture industry and will see several thousand attendess from around the world converge on the city of Darwin Contributions to developing new and existing ideas to stimulate this vital industry are welcome. With almost half of the world’s consumption of seafood coming from farms, aquaculture is playing an increasingly important role in meeting the challenge of global food security. World Aquaculture 2023 (WA2023) will be an opportunity for the international aquaculture community - academics, industry researchers, market and industry analysts, government officials, policy makers and industry representatives to present their work and exchange ideas and develop a vision for the future of the aquaculture industry as we focus on the theme of “Supporting Strength in Aquaculture” An event not to be missed - WA2023 will offer a chance to gauge the sector’s progress, whilst we discuss and debate the issues, ideas, mechanisms and hands-on practical approaches towards building a better industry. In addition there will be ample opportunity to network during both structured and free-flowing events. On behalf of the WA2023 Steering Committee, we look forward to seeing you in Darwin.

Aquaculture is the world’s most diverse farming practice in terms of number of species, farming methods, intensity level and environments used. Significant efforts have been made to promote species diversity since global aquaculture production is dominated by a few dozen species. The needs for responsible use of resources, improved efficiency and in-creased resilience against future challenges such as diseases and climate change require further diversification in aquaculture beyond species level. However, diversification in aquaculture should be well balanced taking into account area specificities, available natural resources, social realities and needs of circular economy. Diversification should be appropriately maintained for local conditions, market access and resilience. Balance between small- and large-scale aquaculture enterprises and activities of various water users for example are salient issues in future aquaculture development.

The venue will be the Mulungushi International Convention Centre (MICC), regarded as the country’s ultimate Conferencing Centre, with world class facilities for meetings, exhibitions and other social activities. Located in the centre of Southern Africa, Zambia itself is a large, landlocked, resource-rich country with sparsely populated lands. The country is regarded as the “land of the legendary African walking safari” with magnificent natural wonders and boast of having the famous Victoria Falls (shared with Zimbabwe), the wild Zambezi River which feeds Lake Kariba (where major large-scale aquaculture ventures are located) and several other freshwater bodies. Zambia is regarded as one of the safest countries in the world to visit. The conference offers a great opportunity for aquaculture researchers, practitioners, decision makers and other stakeholders to meet, network and discuss all aspects of aquaculture in Africa. Exhibitors from all over the globe are expected to exhibit their products in the amazing exhibition Center. Visits to some famous touristic attractions in Lusaka and Zambia will be arranged. Special excursionary or aquaculture tours will also be arranged to nearby fish farms (both large, medium and small scale; aquafeeds plants, fish markets and some aquaculture R&D centres. Be sure to schedule time for this unique scientific, business and social event!

International Annual Conference & Exposition with U.S. Chapter, WAS, National Aquaculture Association and U.S. Suppliers Association