The United States is increasing investment in domestic seafood production through the launch of a new aquaculture research institute supported by approximately US$13.5 million in funding from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).
Announced on 8 June 2026, the Cooperative Institute Fostering Aquaculture Research and Markets (CIFARM) will be led by the University of New Hampshire and operate as a five-year programme focused on advancing marine aquaculture across the country.
The initiative aims to support the development of new technologies, research capabilities and market opportunities to increase farmed seafood production in the United States. NOAA stated that the institute will help address the nation’s reliance on imported seafood while promoting environmentally responsible aquaculture and supporting economic activity in coastal communities.
CIFARM brings together universities, research organisations and Sea Grant programmes from across the United States to contribute expertise in aquaculture science and industry development.
Participating organisations include the University of Miami Rosenstiel School of Marine, Atmospheric, and Earth Science, University of Southern Mississippi, University of Hawaii, Hubbs-SeaWorld Research Institute and several Sea Grant programmes.
Strategic Focus
Researchers involved in the programme will focus on production technology, aquatic animal health, genetics, environmental monitoring, and the economic factors influencing seafood production and marketing.
Key priorities include the development of advanced aquaculture systems, including technologies incorporating artificial intelligence to improve production efficiency. The programme will also investigate approaches to enhance aquatic animal health and genetic performance while supporting management practices that reduce environmental impacts.
In addition, CIFARM plans to support initiatives that expand market opportunities and encourage greater consumer demand for seafood produced in the United States.
Projects undertaken through the institute are expected to address challenges facing aquaculture producers, including disease management, climate-related risks, production costs and supply chain resilience.
NOAA described the funding as the largest single investment in aquaculture made by the agency, reflecting growing interest in expanding domestic seafood production capacity. The agency said the programme will encourage collaboration between researchers, industry stakeholders and policymakers to support innovation and improve the competitiveness of the US aquaculture sector.
The launch comes as global demand for seafood continues to increase, driving efforts to expand domestic production while maintaining environmental safeguards and reducing pressure on wild fish stocks.
