Small-scale shrimp producers in South and South-East Asia continue to play a vital role in meeting demand in the global marketplace. However, demand for products that conform to globally-recognised standards is also increasing – which can pose a challenge for smaller producers in terms of rigour, complexity and cost. As such, certification uptake among small-scale producers has to date been limited. This has in turn encouraged the market to seek alternative mechanisms to support small-scale farmers while still providing assurances.
This interactive workshop hosted by the Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) and Monterey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch (SFW) will focus on delivering certification and other assurances for smallholders in the shrimp supply chain. It will feature updates from various projects run by ASC and SFW, and include breakout sessions and discussion on key topics to engage with the industry around the future of small-scale farmers.
The registration for this event is now closed.
Session outline:
12:00-12:10 Welcome, introduction and agenda-setting
12:10-12:20 Introduction to SFW projects in the smallholder space
12:20-12:30 How ASC engages with small-scale producers
12:30-12:40 Role of technology in improving performance of small-scale farmers
12:40-13:00 Marketplace specification around uncertified and/or unrated product
13:00-14:00 Lunch break and carousel presentations on projects in Vietnam, India and Indonesia
14:00-14:30 Breakout groups on:
Minimal acceptable bar to enter supply chain
How to incentivise improvements without diluting uptake of certification or ratings
How certifications and ratings adapt their programmes to fit the needs of buying organisations in relation to sourcing from small scale shrimp farmers
How international value chains can contribute to driving social benefits towards small-scale producers and communities
14:30-14:50 Report back from breakout groups
14:50-15:00 Closing remarks and next steps
