Aquabusiness Opportunities in Hawaii

Opportunities? You'll find that the business and market environments in Hawaii are highly conducive to the development of aquaculture production and services businesses. The State is strongly interested in expanding and diversifying its economy with environmentally and economically sustainable aquaculture activities.

The Seafood Market

The Hawaii seafood market has many favorable characteristics. Producers can readily access the world's largest seafood importing markets: the U.S. Mainland and Japan. Local per capita seafood consumption is more than three times the national average. Total annual consumption is approximately 50 million pounds with 70 percent imported, largely in less desirable frozen and processed forms. Significantly, the tourist population (is approximately 7 million visitors a year) and there is a large resident ethnic population (61.8% Asian or Pacific Islander in 1990) that prefer fresh, quality seafood. Most important, local Pacific cuisine chefs emphasize the use of locally sourced fruits, vegetables and seafood in their very popular menus.

The Business Environment

Hawaii's business and natural environments together create attractive opportunities. Consider these facts and check out the links section:

• Natural resources can support a variety of species and production technologies
• Year-round growing climate
• Immediate farm acquisition and investment opportunities
• Sophisticated infrastructure support for high-technology
• Highly educated labor force
• Internationally experienced consultants
• College-level training and degree education
• Committed government support for financial and technical assistance
• Political stability and a predictable legal environment
• An understanding regulatory environment
• Excellent transportation system
• Outstanding telecommunications
• Quick access sites in an aquaculture park
• Demonstrated process to lease ocean space for commercial aquaculture

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