Aquaculture is one of the fastest-growing food production systems in the world, and the bulk of its output is currently produced in developing countries. Most aquaculture practices have conferred significant nutritional and social benefits, generally with little or no environmental costs. In efforts to promote the future success of aquaculture in both developing and developed countries, it is essential that potential social and environmental problems be addressed to ensure that aquaculture develops sustainably. This document provides annotations to the principles of Article 9 of the Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries. These annotations are meant to serve as general guidance for those interested in identifying their own criteria and options for actions, as well as partners for collaboration, in support of sustainable aquaculture development. Commitment to collaboration, constructive dialogue among responsible partners and participation of aquaculturists and their communities are important in assigning responsibilities for sustainable development of aquaculture. Providing an enabling environment for sustainable development of aquaculture is the responsibility of government, social and natural scientists, the media, financial institutions and special interest groups (including social and private-sector associations) as well as aquaculture producers, manufacturers and suppliers of inputs, processors and traders of aquaculture products.