By AIT Public Affairs
29 November 2023: The 6th edition of the Giant Prawn Conference was organized by the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT) and Shanghai Ocean University (SHOU), China, together with the Department of Fisheries, Thailand, in Bangkok, Thailand, from 27 to 29 November 2023. This international gathering is the foremost platform dedicated to the farming and conservation of giant freshwater prawns of Macrobrachium spp.
Founded by Michael New, OBE, in 1980, the conference holds a significant place in the aquaculture calendar, with a primary focus on the sustainable evolution of freshwater prawn farming. Giant Prawn 2023 marks a return to Thailand, underscoring the country’s global contributions to this dynamic industry.
The symposium’s theme for this year, “Another Giant Leap for Sustainability,” highlights the innate capacity of giant freshwater prawns to foster sustainable farming practices, setting them apart from marine shrimp farming. The conference delves into cutting-edge technological innovations, especially in biotechnology, aimed at improving prawn stocks, with a spotlight on the advancements within Thailand’s freshwater prawn farming industry. This collaborative effort between AIT and SHOU, led by Krishna R Salin and Xuxiong Huang, respectively, signifies the expertise of both institutions in the Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management of freshwater prawns on a global scale.
Prof. Kazuo Yamamoto, President of the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), expressed his delight at witnessing the collaboration between AIT and Shanghai Ocean University in organizing this global event. He stated, “As we engage in the sessions, lectures, and panel discussions, opportunities abound for valuable connections and collaborative sparks. Giant freshwater prawns, with their intrinsic potential for sustainable farming, are a focal point. Their contribution to rural livelihoods in Southeast Asia is significant. AIT, alongside Shanghai Ocean University, takes pride in hosting esteemed speakers, fostering discussions that align with our commitment to sustainable development.”
Dr. Pitchaya Chainark, representing the Department of Fisheries, Thailand, underscored the significance of giant prawns and the ongoing dedication to research, technology, and innovation in freshwater prawn farming. The Department of Fisheries, Thailand, reiterated its commitment to promoting new technologies and innovations for efficient and sustainable aquaculture.
The conference served as a platform to exchange knowledge, build global networks, and contribute to the progress of the global freshwater prawn farming industry. As Giant Prawn 2023 unfolded, it became a pivotal event, steering discussions, unveiling discoveries, and fostering collaborations in the captivating realm of freshwater prawn farming. The diverse participation reflected the global impact and shared commitment towards a sustainable future in freshwater prawn aquaculture.
The conference attracted 160 participants from 17 countries, including Bangladesh, Brunei, China, India, the United Kingdom, the USA, and others. It covered four main sessions, focusing on country status, genetics and novel biotechnology, prawn health management, and sustainable prawn farming methods. Plenary lectures and panel discussions, such as “How resilient is the Freshwater Prawn industry to the global challenges?” and “Genetics, Nutrition, Health, and Novel Production Systems – What Next for the Global Freshwater Prawn Industry?” added depth to the technical sessions.
Moreover, GIANT PRAWN 2023 hosted an exhibition, offering a platform for industry experts, companies, and researchers to network and showcase innovations in the international giant prawn industry. As part of the conference, a Farm Tour was also organized on November 29 for over 100 delegates to visit the Indoor giant prawn broodstock center and hatchery in Chachangsao Province, Thailand.
For additional details regarding the Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management (AARM) program at the Asian Institute of Technology (AIT), please visit the official website: AIT Aquaculture and Aquatic Resources Management.
GIANT PRAWN Conference is an exceptional event dedicated to the cultivation of Macrobrachium spp., with a primary focus on advancing sustainable practices in freshwater prawn farming and promoting Food on Campus.
For more information, please visit: GIANT PRAWN Conference website
