Climate Adaptation in Seaweed Value Chains: Impacts on Trade and Policy

Seaweed farming has become a vital contributor to the global marine economy, supporting food security, environmental sustainability and economic development. Climate change poses significant challenges to this sector, with rising sea temperatures, ocean acidification and extreme weather events impacting seaweed productivity, quality and supply chains. This study investigates climate adaptation strategies such as offshore farming, species diversification, Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) and climate-resilient farming practices to address these challenges. The research combines quantitative and qualitative analyses, leveraging data from structured surveys, stakeholder interviews, and global reports to evaluate the effectiveness of adaptation measures on production trends, market dynamics, and value chain optimization. Findings reveal that adaptation strategies improve product quality, yield resilience and market stability, with aquaculture as the primary driver of production growth in India. Porter’s Value Chain framework highlights the logistics, technology adoption and market access that hinder optimal value extraction. The study emphasizes the need for integrated policy frameworks, financial support and global collaboration to enhance the sustainability and resilience of the seaweed farming industry. These measures are essential for mitigating climate impacts, securing livelihoods and strengthening the role of seaweed farming in the global blue economy.