The 2025 Seagriculture Asia-Pacific conference, held from 18-20 March in Adelaide, Australia, brought together global seaweed experts under its theme of “Future Proofing the Seaweed Industry.” This event served as a platform for participants from various sectors of the seaweed value chain to address challenges and explore new opportunities.
The international Seagriculture Asia-Pacific conference marked its debut in the region, convening leading experts from around the world under the theme of “Future Proofing the Seaweed Industry” from 18-20 March, 2025 in Australia. Stakeholders from across Asia-Pacific and beyond gathered to exchange knowledge, foster collaboration, and enhance the industry’s resilience for long-term sustainability and growth.
Seagriculture Asia-Pacific 2025, described as the first in-person event of its kind in the region, provided a forum for participants from all segments of the seaweed value chain to tackle challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities. The event received support from the Australian Sustainable Seaweed Alliance (ASSA), an organization committed to promoting environmentally responsible seaweed farming for food, feed, and bioproducts. ASSA plays a crucial role in advocating for the Australian seaweed industry and driving its sustainable expansion nationwide.
The conference kicked off on 18 March with an immersive site visit that showcased both innovation and tradition. Attendees had the opportunity to engage with leading scientists from the South Australian Research & Development Institute (SARDI), explore cutting-edge seaweed projects, and learn about sustainable fishing practices from a Ngarrindjeri Elder. A highlight of the tour was a demonstration by local business Kuti Co., followed by a seafood tasting at the renowned Kuti Shack on Goolwa Beach.
The dynamic conference program featured sessions led by industry leaders addressing key challenges and opportunities in the seaweed sector. Topics covered included climate change mitigation, sustainable farming innovations, market trends, investment opportunities, and regulatory frameworks. With nearly 50 expert speakers, the event brought together entrepreneurs, policymakers, and scientists from prominent organizations such as The Nature Conservancy, Coast 4C, SEADLING, Sea6 Energy, and Hortimare. Keynote addresses were delivered by distinguished figures like Professor Tim Flannery, Steve Meller (CH4 Global), Alan T. Critchley (Verschuren Centre), Steven Hermans (Phyconomy), and Alex Baker (FutureFeed).
Interactive panel discussions provided insights into the future of seaweed farming, investment prospects, and policy development. The Seaweed Elevator Pitches offered a platform for showcasing research and emerging business ideas in the industry.
A highlight of Seagriculture Asia-Pacific 2025 was the vibrant trade show where exhibitors presented the latest technologies driving the seaweed sector forward. Delegates had the opportunity to engage in networking activities, fostering new partnerships and knowledge exchange. Poster presentations delved deeper into research and development in the industry.
The conference also included a networking dinner at the Rose Garden Pavilion in the Adelaide Botanical Gardens, providing a picturesque setting for participants to build connections and share ideas.
Jo Kelly, Chair of ASSA, emphasized the importance of sustainable seaweed farming for economic growth and environmental sustainability. Kim Kreuser, Project Manager of Seagriculture Asia-Pacific 2025, highlighted the significance of global collaboration in driving progress in the seaweed sector.
Looking ahead, the Seagriculture Conferences continue to serve as a premier global platform for innovation, collaboration, and knowledge-sharing in the seaweed industry. The upcoming Seagriculture EU 2025 conference will take place in Rotterdam, The Netherlands, from 17-19 June 2025, featuring a site visit to Hortimare and NIOZ for a firsthand look at leading seaweed research and commercial applications.
