India–Israel partnership launched to advance sustainable shrimp farming

AquaVida, an Indian company focused on technologies and practices that reduce the environmental impact of fish and shrimp farming, has announced a collaboration with ViAqua Therapeutics Ltd. at the Aquaculture Innovation & Development Centre.

This collaboration will enable a synergy of technical expertise and structured farm management practices. It will also promote continuous monitoring systems and research-based approaches to support the long-term growth and sustainability of the aquaculture industry.

ViAqua Therapeutics Ltd. is an Israeli biotech company focused on RNA interference (RNAi) solutions for diseases in aquaculture, particularly in shrimp farming. Its technology consists of feed-based supplements designed to improve resistance against viruses such as White Spot Syndrome Virus (WSSV).

In 2018, ViAqua Therapeutics Ltd. announced an agreement with Skretting to develop functional aquaculture feed products. In more detail, the collaboration involved integrating ViAqua’s RNAi technology into feed to improve the animals' resistance to viral diseases.

A couple of months ago, India and Israel showed significant interest in collaborating, signing a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to strengthen India’s fisheries and aquaculture sector and improve the livelihoods of its coastal communities through technology-driven sustainable practices and the blue economy.

Regarding the partnership, AquaVida stated in a post on its LinkedIn profile: "This partnership reflects a shared commitment to innovation, responsible aquaculture development, and building a stronger, more sustainable future for shrimp farming. We look forward to sharing more updates and insights as the collaboration progresses."