Report of the FAO expert workshop “Turning guidance into action: regional insights for the implementation of the Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture”, Rome, Italy, 24–25 February 2026

https://openknowledge.fao.org/items/7f0857ac-ddc9-488c-a353-f263fea12a37 The Guidelines for Sustainable Aquaculture (GSA) set out shared and agreed principles, practices and recommendations to promote a sustainable aquaculture sector worldwide. Developed through consultations between FAO and Members, the GSA provide a practical reference to guide policy processes, decision-making and action at all levels. During the expert workshop, participants discussed the design of a decision-support tool and identified actions needed for effective GSA operationalization for eventual implementation. Key insights underscored the importance of trusted coordinators, nationally tailored tools and strong communication systems to translate the GSA into practice. Participants also emphasized the value of aligning implementation manuals, digital hubs, communication products and ambassador programmes with the GSA, supported by high-level coordination. Finally, robust monitoring systems and aquaculture information centres were highlighted as essential to sustain progress, strengthen accountability and foster shared learning. Outputs of FAO’s work on the GSA have been taken up by several intergovernmental and regional processes, reflecting growing institutional recognition of the GSA as a reference framework for sustainable aquaculture development. Building on these efforts, FAO is supporting GSA operationalization through the development of a practical decision-support tool, subregional implementation plans, country-level stakeholder engagement, an e-learning course and a dedicated digital portal. Together, these initiatives reinforce the GSA as a global normative framework while translating the guidance into actionable steps and fostering sustained uptake across regions.