GOAL 2008 to Address Global Economic Crisis, Aquaculture Sustainability

In response to the crisis rippling from the United States to the economies of other countries around the world, the Global Aquaculture Alliance has updated the program for its Global Outlook for Aquaculture Leadership 2008 conference to address how the crisis may affect aquaculture producers, processors and retailers throughout the seafood industry.

GOAL 2008 will be held October 28-31 in Qingdao, China. The conference is a strategic event for top international aquaculture and seafood leaders.

On October 29, production speakers and panelists will discuss impacts of the economic crisis on production already hit by rising costs for feed and energy. On October 30, market speakers will examine how the crisis will likely affect consumers and markets in the United States, Europe and Japan.

On October 31, Darden Restaurants Vice President of Protein Procurement Roger Bing will also speak on the varied market impacts of the economic crisis during the “Issues” sessions. After his presentation, expert panelists representing a cross section of sectors within the seafood industry will take questions regarding the direct effects of the crisis on profitability and its indirect effects on sustainability.

For example, how can the aquaculture industry best avoid cutting further corners and potentially affecting food safety, product quality, environmental integrity or social justice? These will be critical discussions pertinent to all industry leaders in attendance.
 
In addition to economics, the theme of GOAL 2008 is Sustainability – Our Journey and Commitment. Key to the future of the international aquaculture community, sustainability will form a background for the production and marketing segments of the GOAL conference. Importantly, a series of presentations on the economics and attitudes of sustainability, and new Best Aquaculture Practices standards on product safety and quality verification will also help participants gain greater understanding at this critical time.

Space is still available for on-site GOAL 2008 registration on October 28 at the Shangri-La Hotel in Qingdao. For further program information and registration forms for GOAL 2008, visit www.gaalliance.org/goal08/ or contact the Global Aquaculture Alliance – telephone +1-314-293-5500, e-mail homeoffice@gaalliance.org.