Threats & Solutions

Threats of Pond Fish Culture Industry

The Hong Kong pond fish culture industry has enjoyed a golden age during the period of rapid economic growth. However, the ensuing urbanization has caused great impact on the industry, and the the local pond fish culture industry began to decline in the 1990s.

Due to urbanization and urban development, many fishponds were filled and redeveloped for residential, commercial or industrial use, resulting in a continuous reduction in fishpond area. Meanwhile, water pollution caused by urbanization has worsened the living environment for fish which increased the difficulty and the cost of fish farming.

In addition, socio-economic transformation and an aging population have made it difficult to attract new entrants to the industry. Fish farming is physically demanding, requires long hours of outdoor work, and offers unstable income. These are the reasons causing the lack of successors in the industry. Coupled with increased production costs and the large supply of lower-priced freshwater fish from Mainland China, it has become increasingly difficult for local products to compete in the market.

Support aquaculture products from local fish farms, especially those from the Accredited Fish Farms.
Follow and support policies and programs that promote sustainable development of pond fish culture industry.
Report any illegal activities that harm fishponds to the relevant authorities, including illegal dumping and land filling.
Participate in fishpond-related conservation activities, such as guided tour, to learn more about Hong Kong’s pond fish culture industry and share with family and friends.

What Can We Do to Conserve Fishponds?