Cobia is now a cornerstone of Taiwan's seafood sector

Taiwan's First Seafood Farm Joins the ASC Improver Programme, Advancing Responsible Aquaculture

Tuna Rich Trade & Fishery Co., Ltd. in Kaohsiung commits to measurable improvements for cobia and dragon-tiger grouper production.

Kaohsiung — Tuna Rich Trade & Fishery Co., Ltd. has achieved a significant national first by becoming the first aquaculture farm in Taiwan to join the Improver Programme by the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) through an Aquaculture Improvement Project (AIP).

Cobia farm. Photo: ASC

The farm, located in Kaohsiung, specializes in producing high-value marine species: cobia (Rachycentron canadum) and dragon-tiger grouper (Epinephelus fuscoguttatus X Epinephelus lanceolatus). Annually, the facility produces around 95 metric tonnes of cobia and 480 metric tonnes of dragon-tiger grouper, and is now taking structured, measurable steps to further enhance its farming practices toward sustainability.

A Structured Pathway to Sustainability

The ASC Improver Programme is specifically designed for aquaculture farms that are not yet ready or eligible for full ASC certification but demonstrate a firm commitment to making documented, measurable improvements. By supporting farms through this structured pathway of change, the programme helps drive higher sustainability and ethical standards across the aquaculture sector globally. These collective improvements play a vital role in advancing ASC's mission to transform seafood farming for a more responsible and sustainable future.

Patricia Bianchi, AIP and Governance Manager at ASC, highlighted the importance of this development: "The entry of Tuna Rich Trade & Fishery Co., Ltd. into the Improver Programme marks an important milestone for cobia and grouper farming in Taiwan. By joining, the farm is not only committing to advancing environmental performance, fish welfare, and improving social conditions, but also gaining access to technical support, training, and tools to strengthen its operations."

Ms. Bianchi added that participation in the programme provides recognition among responsible seafood buyers and partners, helping the farm to better connect with markets that value sustainable aquaculture.

Jennifer Lai, CEO of Tuna Rich Trade & Fishery Co., Ltd, expressed the company's long-term vision: “In this humble pond, we strive with small, deliberate steps, hoping that one day, they will echo across the vast world. We are committing to measurable improvements in environmental performance, fish welfare, and working conditions, and to greater transparency from farm to buyer. By following a clear, independently reviewed plan and reporting our progress, we aim to produce excellent cobia while contributing to the growth of responsible aquaculture in Taiwan.”

Taiwan: A Cornerstone of Tropical Seafood Success 

Taiwan has emerged as a global leader in tropical fish species aquaculture, having pioneered the commercial production of several high-value marine species. Through advanced farming techniques, Taiwan has successfully scaled cobia production, meeting growing demand both domestically and internationally.

Known for its fast growth, premium flesh quality, and adaptability to aquaculture systems, cobia is now a cornerstone of Taiwan's seafood sector. This thriving industry supports Taiwan’s seafood sector and provides important economic opportunities for coastal communities. The farm's commitment to the ASC Improver Programme solidifies Taiwan’s position as a region dedicated to both quality production and sustainability leadership.

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