As the global seafood industry grapples with climate change and resource pressures, Thailand is taking a decisive step forward. A new partnership between Thai Union Group and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) is setting a precedent in blue finance, boosting Thailand Blue Economy seafood sustainability while strengthening the country’s role as a leader in responsible aquaculture.
Thailand’s Ocean Economy Is a National Powerhouse
Thailand’s ocean-based industries are vital to its economy. Contributing nearly 30% of the nation’s GDP, the Blue Economy supports almost a quarter of the population across 23 coastal provinces. From coastal tourism and shipping to seafood and shrimp farming, marine resources underpin national growth. But overfishing, climate risks, and environmental degradation are threatening long-term sustainability.
That’s why integrated, science-backed ocean management is now more than a goal—it’s a necessity.
Thai Union and ADB Launch Landmark Blue Finance Deal
In a first-of-its-kind move, ADB has extended a $150 million blue loan to Thai Union—marking the bank’s first private sector loan for Thailand’s seafood industry. The deal is designed to scale up sustainable seafood production, specifically focusing on shrimp farming, one of the country’s major aquaculture exports.
Ludovic Garnier, CFO of Thai Union, described the collaboration as “a meaningful and lasting change” for the sector. “This partnership strengthens our commitment to responsible aquaculture and accelerates Thailand’s transition to a resilient Blue Economy,” he added.
Sustainable Shrimp Farming: A Climate-Smart Solution
The initiative places sustainability at the heart of Thai Union’s sourcing. The company will expand its procurement of sustainable shrimp—certified under GSSI-recognized standards like the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP). It will also support farms engaged in credible Aquaculture Improvement Projects (AIPs).
The approach is comprehensive:
Biodiversity protection
Feed traceability
Lower carbon emissions via renewable energy
Improved feed conversion ratios
Fair labor and community engagement
This isn’t just good PR—it’s a business-critical evolution toward climate-smart aquaculture and resilient seafood supply chains.
SeaChange 2030 and the Future of Thai Seafood
Thai Union’s long-term sustainability roadmap, SeaChange® 2030, underpins the company’s operational transformation. Since its original launch in 2016, the program has delivered improved seafood traceability, ethical labor standards, and a sharp focus on greenhouse gas reduction.
“This agreement aligns directly with our SeaChange® 2030 strategy,” said Adam Brennan, Chief Sustainability & Communications Officer at Thai Union. “We’re driving the industry forward with integrity and innovation.”
By anchoring environmental and social outcomes in every stage of the seafood supply chain, Thai Union is creating a replicable model for global producers.
Financial Innovation Driving Resilient Supply Chains
The project’s scope expands beyond Thai Union and ADB. Major financiers—including HSBC, Bank of China, and Sumitomo Mitsui—are backing this transition. Through blended finance, the initiative aims to mobilize capital for large-scale impact.
ADB’s Country Director Anouj Mehta summed it up well: “This project shows how blue finance can drive sustainable economic growth while strengthening climate resilience in the seafood sector.”
As Thailand builds a resilient, sustainable ocean economy, initiatives like this represent more than progress—they define the future. For buyers, distributors, and seafood stakeholders across the globe, Thailand’s Blue Economy seafood sustainability is a signal to watch, invest in, and learn from.
