The future of global food systems hinges on their ability to harness the full spectrum of natural and human potential. This report focuses on one of the most promising food systems opportunities: the development of the blue foods sector, which has the capacity to drive economic growth, improve nutrition and strengthen climate resilience.

Across Africa, blue foods already supply about 18% of total animal protein, often at a lower cost than meat or poultry. If blue foods production were doubled, the continent could unlock an additional $17 billion in GDP, reduce its protein gap by 25% compared to the global average, and generate millions of sustainable livelihoods.

Through the Food Innovation Hubs Initiative, the World Economic Forum is supporting this integrated approach by helping countries identify high-impact opportunities, energize local ecosystems and mobilize investment. The initiative also hosts a global network of innovators, who work on advancing sustainable food systems worldwide. Pairing innovation with collaboration can help build a blue food sector that feeds people, powers economies and serves as a model of inclusive and resilient growth.