Singapore is set to significantly expand its aquaculture operations in the East Johor Strait from 2026, with the Singapore Food Agency (SFA) planning to release 117 hectares of farming space off Pasir Ris, Pulau Ubin, and Pulau Tekong for tender. This expansion aims to boost local seafood production to a maximum of 6,700 tonnes annually—well above the 4,100 tonnes produced in 2023, which accounted for just 7.3% of the country’s seafood consumption. The move is part of a broader strategy to strengthen food security, reduce import dependence, and revitalize an industry that saw about a quarter of its farms close in 2024.
The new farming spaces will offer opportunities for both existing and new entrants, but industry experts note that achieving the ambitious production targets will require addressing longstanding challenges. Most current farms use open-cage systems, which are vulnerable to environmental threats like harmful algal blooms. While closed containment systems offer better protection and less pollution, they come with higher energy costs, prompting calls for government support, such as running submarine cables to provide cheaper land-based electricity. Additionally, the sector faces a shortage of younger farmers, raising concerns about succession and the need for specialized training and knowledge transfer.
Environmental sustainability is a key consideration, as the expansion will take place near critical habitats for the endangered dugong and seagrass meadows. The SFA has recommended that farms adopt best aquaculture practices and site their operations in zones that allow for efficient waste flushing, minimizing nutrient buildup and protecting marine ecosystems. An environmental impact assessment suggests the expansion is unlikely to harm water quality or seagrass habitats, but ongoing monitoring and stakeholder engagement are planned to manage any potential impacts.
Experts emphasize that more research and development is needed to lower operational costs, improve technology, and ensure the long-term viability of the sector. The expansion is seen as part of a systematic integration of local seafood production, but its success will depend on balancing increased output with environmental protection, innovation, and workforce renewal. Ultimately, the initiative reflects Singapore’s commitment to building a resilient, sustainable food supply amid global uncertainties and changing consumption patterns.
(Source: The Straits Times)
