The Regional Secretary for the Sea, Science and Technology visited today the Aqualab of the Department of Oceanography and Fisheries at the University of the Azores, where he observed the experiences that are being carried out in the laboratory. In this regard, the government official stressed "the research that is being conducted on a series of species with great potential for aquaculture in the Region."

The scientific developed in the Azores is also an asset that will attract investors, who know they can rely on scientists to solve practical issues arising during the development of their aquaculture projects," said Fausto Brito e Abreu.

The Regional Secretary for the Sea defended the "huge potential" of aquaculture to complement other areas of economic activity and develop synergies in the industry sector, namely "canneries, whose residues may be used as food, and fisheries; the bait used in fishing activities can be produced in aquaculture."

Fausto Brito e Abreu stressed that "the Government of the Azores is keen to attract companies in the area of aquaculture and marine biotechnology to the Azores." In this regard, the government official reminded that the Government is preparing a package of sustainable measures to create favourable tax conditions and privileged access to scientific knowledge so that "investors may become aware that the Azores, in addition to their natural conditions, also have a regulatory framework that encourages investments in these areas."

The Regional Government considers that aquaculture is an area of interest to the Region and, for that reason, is developing a project that will map the areas with high potential for aquaculture in the archipelago.

Speaking to journalists today, Fausto Brito e Abreu said the mapping should be ready "within months", adding that it "will be available for companies that wish to invest in the Region."
Established in 2012, the Aqualab of the Department of Oceanography and Fisheries currently has five researchers who conduct experiences with marine organisms, including macroalgae, microalgae, barnacles and limpets (Haliotis coccinea); the latter is a species with high commercial value worldwide.