Seaweed for the future: public policy recommendations towards a blue transformation in Latin America
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The cultivation of macroalgae in Latin America and the Caribbean represents a strategic opportunity to strengthen food security, foster economic development and promote environmental sustainability. While global production has expanded significantly, the region accounts for only 2 percent of the total, despite its rich marine ecosystems and coastal communities with traditional knowledge of algae use. To address this underutilized potential, FAO convened the ACUIALGAS workshop in Chile in June 2024, bringing together experts from seven countries to analyze the current state and future prospects of the sector. The discussions covered key topics such as the nutritional value of macroalgae and their role as functional foods, the need for dedicated regulatory frameworks, and the ecological benefits of cultivation, including carbon sequestration and improvements in water quality. Technological challenges were also highlighted, particularly the need for research, biotechnology, and capacity-building in local communities. The social value of macroalgae farming was emphasized, especially its potential to empower women and young people, along with the importance of promoting inclusive business models. Regarding market access, participants stressed the need to diversify products and explore new sectors such as cosmetics, nutraceuticals, and bioenergy. The workshop concluded with proposals for FAO, governments, and industry to coordinate efforts, including the creation of an international macroalgae platform, strengthening of regulatory frameworks, financing of innovation, and ensuring that the benefits of cultivation reach coastal communities directly—positioning macroalgae farming as a driver of sustainable development for the region.