Shrimp farming

v. 10, n. 418, dezembro, 2025

Abstract

Global production of Penaeus vannamei shrimp is concentrated in Asia and Latin America, while the main consumer markets are located in the United States, China, and the European Union. The growing global demand for this crustacean is expected to be met by aquaculture, given that the volume of wild-caught shrimp remains stagnant. Despite its small share in global production and trade, Brazil has strong potential to supply part of the worldwide demand for the species. The Northeast accounts for nearly all national production, and the activity has become increasingly important for income generation and job creation. Ceará and Rio Grande do Norte are the country’s largest producers; however, shrimp farming is expanding to other northeastern states and moving into more inland areas. Most shrimp farmers in the region are micro or small enterprises, and the primary destination of production continues to be the domestic market, with a large portion sold to intermediaries. One of the major obstacles to the sector’s development is the lack of environmental licensing, a factor that prevents access to financing.