Government to Boost Ornamental Fish Business sector
Thailand is making significant strides in expanding its global market share for ornamental fish, leveraging its unique advantages in climate, species diversity, and advanced breeding techniques. The country's ornamental fish industry, currently accounting for 11% of the global market and over 1 billion baht in exports, is set to grow further with a series of strategic initiatives in breeding, farming, marketing, and export promotion.
The Department of Fisheries, in collaboration with Thailand Post, is creating an export logistics framework for ornamental fish. This partnership aims to allow farmers and small-medium enterprises (SMEs) to access international markets directly, bypassing middlemen. The plan includes four strategies and 13 initiatives focusing on breeding, farming, marketing, and export promotion.
## Breeding Initiatives
Investments in genetic research will focus on developing more resilient, diverse, and attractive fish varieties. This could involve using advanced genetic technologies like CRISPR for trait enhancement. Additionally, efforts will be made to breed fish that are more resistant to diseases, reducing mortality rates and improving overall health. Rare or exotic species in high demand globally will also be developed, adding unique value to the Thai market.
## Farming Initiatives
Sustainable farming practices will be adopted, such as using water plants for oxygenation, reducing chemical use, and implementing efficient waste management systems. The expansion of farming facilities into less populated areas or utilizing modern urban farming techniques like rooftop farming will increase production capacity. Rigorous quality control measures will ensure the health and quality of exported fish, enhancing Thailand's reputation in the global market.
## Marketing Initiatives
Digital marketing will be leveraged to showcase Thai ornamental fish varieties, connecting directly with global consumers and businesses. Regular participation in international aquarium and pet exhibitions will promote Thai ornamental fish and build trade relationships. Targeted marketing campaigns will highlight the uniqueness and quality of Thai ornamental fish, focusing on themes like sustainability and biodiversity.
## Export Promotion Initiatives
Improvements in export logistics and infrastructure will ensure timely and safe delivery of live fish to international markets. Pursuing trade agreements and partnerships with key importing countries will help reduce tariffs and regulatory barriers. Ensuring compliance with international animal welfare and environmental standards and obtaining necessary certifications will enhance credibility and market access.
By focusing on these areas, Thailand can strengthen its position as a major exporter of ornamental fish, increasing its global market share and competitiveness. The 2023-2027 Ornamental Aquatic Animal Development Action Plan, being drafted by the Department of Fisheries, outlines these strategies and initiatives.
Following testing, three additional species - sea grapes, sea lettuce algae, and sea mushrooms - have been approved for inclusion in the transport system via Thailand Post's delivery system. Major importers of Thai ornamental fish include the United States, the EU, and China. The Department of Fisheries is also drafting a supplementary MoU for overseas shipments of ornamental aquatic animals, which will allow direct export without relying on middlemen.
The global ornamental fish market was worth 10 billion baht in 2024, offering substantial opportunities for growth. With these strategic initiatives, Thailand's ornamental fish industry is poised to make a splash in the global market.
- The Department of Fisheries, with their strategic partnership with Thailand Post, is not only focusing on creating an export logistics framework for ornamental fish but also aims to allow farmers and small-medium enterprises (SMEs) to access international markets directly, bypassing middlemen.
- As part of the 2023-2027 Ornamental Aquatic Animal Development Action Plan, various initiatives are being undertaken, such as investing in genetic research to develop more resilient, diverse, and attractive fish varieties, and adopting sustainable farming practices to ensure the health and quality of exported fish, aiming to strengthen Thailand's position as a major exporter of ornamental fish and increase its global market share.
