#Thailand #Global Seafood Alliance #Bangkok #TCRS #Shrimp Summit

Upcoming Responsible Seafood Summit in Bangkok

The Global Seafood Alliance (GSA) has officially announced the upcoming Responsible Seafood Summit, scheduled to take place in Bangkok, Thailand, in September 2026. This marks a significant event in the seafood industry as it will feature a unique collaboration with The Center for Responsible Seafood (TCRS), merging their Shrimp Summit content into the program. The combination of these two industry-leading events presents a brilliant opportunity to discuss pressing issues facing seafood production and trade.

Event Details

Set to occur at the luxurious Shangri-La Bangkok hotel during the week of September 21, 2026, this summit is highly anticipated by seafood professionals from around the globe. Returning to Thailand after a hiatus since 2012, this venue is fitting given that Thailand is one of the largest shrimp-producing regions worldwide.

Both GSA and TCRS are nonprofit organizations, and their decision to merge their annual events underscores their commitment to promoting sustainable seafood production. Both organizations recognized that they would provide valuable insights and development opportunities at a crucial time for the industry.

Perspectives from Industry Leaders

Mike Kocsis, CEO of GSA, emphasized the importance of this collaboration for the global seafood industry, stating, "The upcoming calendar year provides a unique opportunity for both GSA and TCRS to offer a new, exciting and high-value event to the global seafood industry, with a special focused track devoted to shrimp." The need for cooperation is urgent as the shrimp industry grapples with numerous challenges ranging from environmental concerns to market fluctuations. This summit plays a crucial role in fostering an environment where industry leaders can openly discuss these issues and work towards solutions.

Moreover, George Chamberlain, president of TCRS and founding member of GSA, remarked on the significance of integrating both organizations' efforts. Reflecting on the previous three years, Chamberlain noted how they convened leaders in countries such as Vietnam, India, and Indonesia to explore shrimp aquaculture's full potential. He stated, "I'm excited to share the latest information that supports TCRS's vision that regenerative aquaculture – in which the producers don't just mitigate their environmental impact but actually improve their local ecosystems – is the future of this industry and shrimp farmers can lead the way."

A Legacy of Collaboration

The Responsible Seafood Summit has a legacy dating back to its inception, with the first annual conference held in Bangkok in 2004. The idea for an aquaculture trade association originated at the 1996 World Aquaculture Society meeting in the same city, leading to the founding of GSA in 1997. This upcoming event not only honors this history but further cements Bangkok's status as a vital hub for seafood trade.

The Center for Responsible Seafood, originally founded as the Responsible Aquaculture Foundation in 2009, aims to enhance the seafood market through regenerative practices. Their Shrimp Summit brings together the entire shrimp value chain with practical solutions to improve sustainability and economic viability.

Looking Ahead

As the collaboration between GSA and TCRS gears up for the summit, early registration will soon be announced. Interested participants can sign up for the waiting list to receive updates on the event.

In summary, the Responsible Seafood Summit in Bangkok will not only be a gathering of industry professionals but a pivotal moment to tackle significant challenges in the seafood sector. With an eye towards sustainability and regeneration, the summit aims to redefine the approach the industry takes to seafood production as it navigates through a rapidly changing global market.