First fish farms ASC certified

On 15 August 2012 the first ASC-certificates were handed to PT Aquafarm Nusantara (Regal Springs Group) for two farm locations: Toba Farm (Sumatra) and Kedung Ombo (Java). These tilapia farms are the first globally to complete the ASC certification. Several other farms also entered the certification process and are expected to reach ASC certification in the months to come.

The ASC values transparency in all its processes. In the ASC certification process several moments are set for external stakeholder input to get a well-balanced view on a farm’s performance.

Auditing capacity has been expanding steadily to the point that tilapia and pangasius farms globally can contract certifiers to have their farms audited. The first certified pangasius farms will be a reality shortly. For species like bivalves, abalone and salmon this is expected to be the case early 2013, while standard development processes for trout and shrimp are expected to be finalised soon.

Tilapia products carrying the ASC logo will be available in retail outlets in several countries and are expected first in The Netherlands and Germany from 15 August onwards

Updates on farms in the certification process, as well as the audit reports of all certified farms, can be found at the ASC website.