Aquaculture in Egypt: Improving Food Security and Resolving Resource Allocation Conflicts

Abstract

The farming of fish is viewed as a vital growing sector within food production worldwide because of aquaculture's ability to provide inexpensive protein while allowing overdepleted capture fisheries to replenish. Yet despite its perceived food security and environmental benefits, aquaculture poses serious potential for exacerbating environmental and resource allocation conflicts. Egypt, a nation with a long history in fish farming, provides examples of both positive and negative consequences of aquaculture development. This article examines prospects for improving Egypt's food security through yield and productivity gains in aquaculture, while ameliorating negative environmental and resource utilization outcomes. Specific technologies, policies, and economic instruments are discussed, particularly in light of worsening conflicts over access to water, land, and other vital resources. The article concludes that inequity in access to capital and political influence may be the most salient obstacle to the successful long-term development of a high-yield, politically and socially viable aquaculture sector.