On 1st May, 2014, there were 160 aquaculture farms registered with the Food and Veterinary Service. Five of them are state farms whose main activity is fish stocking in natural water bodies. The rest are private farms. Aquaculture establishments are located in the areas, which are not directly related to the availability of freshwater resources but more reflects the traditions and socio-economic interests of landowners.
In general, in the period from 2006 to 2012 there is an upward trend in number of aquaculture farms, which can be related to the financial support provided by the European Fisheries Fund. Also the amount of recirculation systems in aquaculture has increased by 92% when comparing with 2011.
Main species produced are carp, trout, goldfish, pike, catfish, sturgeon etc.
In 2012, market production in aquaculture sector constituted 573.5 tons total (in 2011 - 545.6 t).
The new Common Fisheries Policy pays more attention on aquaculture activities as an alternative source of fish for consumption that could help to lower the pressure on natural resources. In this line the Multiannual Framework for Aquaculture Development 2013 - 2020 was elaborated and approved in Latvia.