Thiruvananthapuram | November 1, 2025
In a landmark step to unlock India’s blue economy potential, the Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS) and the Department of Fisheries, Government of Kerala, in collaboration with leading national and international partners, announced the first-ever International Seaweeds Symposium — “SEAWEEDS 2026: Value Chains, Climate Solutions, and Blue Economy Pathways”, to be held in Kochi from March 5–7, 2026.
The event will bring together global experts, policymakers, innovators, and industry leaders to catalyse the sustainable growth of India’s seaweed sector — an area of immense ecological and economic promise.
With the global seaweed industry projected to touch USD 30 billion, and India currently contributing just 1%, SEAWEEDS 2026 aims to chart pathways for expansion, innovation, and inclusive development.
Highlights of SEAWEEDS 2026:
- Plenary sessions by world-renowned scientists and ten parallel technical sessions
- Training workshops on seaweed processing and value addition
- A national-level exhibition showcasing technologies and innovations
- A business meet for industry collaborations
- A Seaweed Farmers Meet engaging SC/ST communities and coastal entrepreneurs
- Launch of “India’s Seaweed Roadmap 2030” aligned with the UN SDGs and India’s Blue Economy Mission
Eminent global experts including Prof. Michael Borowitzka (Murdoch University, Australia) and Dr. Matteo Francavilla (University of Foggia, Italy) will join the symposium, along with key organizations in the field both in India and outside will participate. ICAR-CIFT will coordinate the farmers training exclusively for the SC/ST community on seaweed aquaculture and value addition. The partner organisations of the event include Centre for Innovation in Science and Social Action (CISSA), Forum of Traditional Fisherman Associations (FOTA) and Seaweed Research and Utilisation Association (SRUA).
At the press meet held today in Thiruvananthapuram, Hon’ble Minister for Fisheries and Culture, Shri. Saji Cheriyan, officially launched the event website (https://seaweeds2026.in/).
He remarked: “Kerala has the potential to become India’s seaweed innovation hub. SEAWEEDS 2026 will not only highlight our scientific and industrial strengths but also foster global partnerships for a sustainable ocean future.”
Also present were Prof. A. Biju Kumar (Vice Chancellor, KUFOS), Dr. Dinesh K. (Registrar, KUFOS), Dr. Radhika Rajasree (Organising Secretary, SEAWEEDS 2026), and Dr. Nevin (Dept. of Marine Biosciences).
Kerala’s proactive fisheries governance, coupled with emerging bio-park and industrial initiatives, positions the state as a leader in seaweed aquaculture and blue growth.
