HAPO Participates in the FEAP–GFCM Technical Consultation on SustainableAquaculture Practices

Athens, 11-12 February​

The Hellenic Aquaculture Producers Organization (HAPO) and the Greek aquaculture sector were strongly represented at the FEAP–GFCM Technical Consultation on Sustainable Aquaculture Practices, a workshop aimed at advancing the implementation of the General Fisheries Commission for the Mediterranean (GFCM) Aquaculture Work Plan through knowledge exchange and participatory dialogue.​

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The event was designed to strengthen collaboration between the GFCM Technical Advisory Groups (TAGs) and aquaculture producers, ensuring that scientific research is closely aligned with the practical realities and needs of aquaculture operations.​

Bringing together more than 40 aquaculture producers, researchers, and policymakers, the meeting helped identify key practical priorities, facilitate the exchange of expertise, and contribute to the development of new GFCM guidelines on topics such as workers’ welfare, animal welfare, aquaculture restoration, and responsible investment. Participants also worked towards the creation of a regional food loss assessment tool and the development of a draft guidance document on the application of Artificial Intelligence in Aquaculture.​​

Opening remarks were delivered by:​

• Lara Barazi-Geroulanou, Chief Executive Officer of Kefalonia Fisheries, HAPO member, and President of the Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP);​
• Alkistis Parpoura, Director General of the General Directorate of Fisheries and Aquaculture, Ministry of Rural Development and Food of Greece;​
• Javier Ojeda, Secretary General of FEAP.​

The two-day workshop concluded with a networking dinner hosted by HAPO for all
conference participants.