This document contains the proceedings of the technical workshop entitled “Status, technological innovations, and industry development needs of mud crab (Scylla spp.) aquaculture” held from 27 to 30 November 2023, in Singapore, and organised by the Fisheries and Aquaculture Division of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in collaboration with the Aquaculture Innovation Centre (AIC), Temasek Polytechnic.

The workshop was a direct result of the growing interest by FAO Members engaged at different levels in mud crab aquaculture and the desire to exchange innovative hatchery production and farming solutions that would improve the overall production outputs. The sustainable expansion and technically advanced production of this valuable crustacean would support existing farming activities, contribute to the production of aquatic food, secure revenues for rural coastal communities, as well as generate new employment opportunities.

This document provides a summary of the workshop, highlighting key opportunities and challenges in the development of mud crab aquaculture, along with a series of follow-up actions and recommendations to support growth in the sector. It also includes a brief global overview of the status of mud crab aquaculture development as well as reviews detailing the development status in major producing countries. Additionally, the document features technical reports on advancements in hatchery-produced seedstock, farming systems for both soft-shell and hard-shell crabs, value chains, marketing, and topics related to management, conservation, transportation, and the future quality and handling standards of the industry. These reviews offer valuable insights into recent experiences and ongoing activities within the field of mud crab aquaculture.

The exchange of information and innovative farming and handling practices during the workshop will be captured in the second edition of the FAO Mud Crab Aquaculture Manual, due out in early 2026, reflecting the spirit of collaboration and information sharing.

The proceeding of the workshop is intended for national authorities, including government bodies and research institutions, as well as academia and private sector stakeholders, aiming to foster engagement and collaboration in promoting and supporting the further expansion of this aquaculture subsector through a comprehensive review of its key challenges and opportunities.