On 10 September 2026, Ornamental Fish International (OFI), in collaboration with Aquafauna Biosystems, will hold the first Global Marine Aquarium Trade Dialogue (GMAT Dialogue). The online event will bring together representatives from industry, science, government, public aquariums, conservation organisations and source communities to discuss some of the important issues currently affecting the marine aquarium trade.

The idea behind GMAT is relatively simple. There is considerable work taking place around the world on marine aquarium fisheries, sustainability, traceability, animal welfare, conservation and regulation, but these discussions do not always involve all parts of the sector. GMAT is intended to provide an opportunity to bring some of these different perspectives together.

This is becoming increasingly important as the marine aquarium trade continues to evolve. Scientific knowledge is improving, expectations around sustainability and transparency are increasing, and governments and international organisations continue to consider how marine species and their trade should be managed.

At the same time, the marine aquarium trade continues to provide livelihoods and economic opportunities, particularly for coastal communities in source countries. Maintaining healthy ecosystems and sustainable natural resources is therefore important both for conservation and for the long-term future of the communities and businesses that depend upon them. The first GMAT Dialogue will look at these issues from several perspectives.

The programme includes representatives from the CITES Secretariat, OFI, OATA, LINI, public aquariums and the marine aquarium industry, together with scientific and technical expertise. Topics will include the international regulatory environment, marine aquarium fisheries and coastal livelihoods, sustainability, traceability and the potential role of new technologies.

There have been significant developments in many of these areas in recent years. Improvements in monitoring, data collection and digital traceability, together with developments in artificial intelligence and other technologies, are providing new tools that may help us better understand and manage marine aquarium resources.

However, technology is only part of the discussion. Good science remains essential, as does ensuring that management decisions are based on current and relevant information. Any solutions also need to recognise the practical realities of the trade, particularly at the source-country level.

OFI believes there is considerable value in creating opportunities for these different groups to talk openly about these issues. Supporting a sustainable marine aquarium industry means recognising the positive contribution the trade makes while also continuing to look for areas where we can improve. Better information, practical management, improved traceability and responsible use of natural resources can all contribute to maintaining a viable industry and healthy marine ecosystems for future generations.

GMAT is not intended to resolve all of these issues in a single meeting. Rather, the September event is the first in a planned series of dialogues that we hope will encourage greater communication and constructive, evidence-based discussion between the different groups involved in the marine aquarium sector.

The first Global Marine Aquarium Trade Dialogue will be held online on 10 September 2026 from 12:00–15:00 GMT.

Further information on the programme and registration is available on the

https://www.eventbrite.sg/e/the-gmat-dialogue-2026-part-1-tickets-1994865089182?aff=oddtdtcreator&keep_tld=true