Bangkok: Global production of aquatic animals and algae reached a new high of 235 million tonnes in 2024, driven largely by the rapid expansion of aquaculture, according to a new report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) launched today during ...

Lao PDR and Viet Nam are strengthening transboundary cooperation to address shared water challenges, including pollution, flooding, and ecosystem degradation in the Ma and Neun-Ca river basins. The initiative supports improved monitoring, data sharing, and joint action to enhance water security and climate resilience across borders.

FAO and the Australian Water Partnership launched a new publication on managing water scarcity in the Asia-Pacific region, highlighting lessons from ten countries. The publication provides practical recommendations to strengthen water security, resilience, and sustainable water governance across the region.

The Asia-Pacific Water Scarcity Programme took center stage at the International Soil and Water Forum in Bangkok, showcasing innovative solutions for water scarcity, water accounting, and sustainable resource management. The event brought together global experts and policymakers to advance collaboration and climate-resilient water governance.

FAO and FutureWater have identified key priorities to strengthen Mongolia’s response to water scarcity, including improved water accounting, groundwater management, and climate resilience. The scoping study provides a foundation for evidence-based planning and future investments in sustainable water resources management.

Despite abundant water resources, Lao PDR faces growing challenges from seasonal droughts, climate change, and increasing competition for water. A national consultation under the Asia-Pacific Water Scarcity Programme identified priority actions to strengthen water governance, management, and long-term water security.

FAO and Viet Nam have launched a new initiative in the Central Highlands to strengthen drought monitoring and water management using the WaPOR platform. The project aims to improve agricultural resilience and support evidence-based responses to growing water scarcity challenges.

Thailand is refining its Water Accounting Roadmap (WARM) to strengthen evidence-based water management and support national water scarcity planning. Stakeholders provided key recommendations to improve water accounting, enhance data quality, and guide future implementation across river basins.

The Asia-Pacific Water Scarcity Programme brought together government agencies and technical experts in Cambodia to discuss water scarcity and water tenure challenges in the Stung Staung River Basin. The workshop strengthened stakeholder coordination and validated initial findings to support future water management actions.

FAO convened stakeholders in Kampong Thom Province to validate Cambodia’s first water scarcity diagnostic study and water tenure assessment in the Stung Staung River Basin. The findings provide a foundation for stronger water governance, stakeholder engagement, and future water sector reforms.

The Asia-Pacific Water Scarcity Programme completed its final Water Accounting Roadmap (WARM 5) workshop in Thailand, marking an important step toward institutionalizing water accounting. The consultation strengthened stakeholder support for improved water governance, integrated data systems, and evidence-based water planning.

Managing water is undoubtedly a complex mandate, reflected in the multitude of organizations and initiatives active worldwide. However, before fair and effective allocation can be addressed, it is essential to first understand what water resources exist, where they are located, and how they are u...

FAO, in collaboration with FAO-RAP and FutureWater, launched the WatNEX Engine to support data-driven Water–Energy–Food–Ecosystem (WEFE) Nexus decision-making. The tool helps planners assess resource trade-offs, improve water accounting, and strengthen integrated resource management across sectors.

A new study in Thailand’s Pasak River Basin highlights how farmers, industries, communities, and authorities are navigating competing water demands. The findings point to opportunities for stronger collaboration, improved water governance, and more inclusive decision-making to address growing water challenges.

FAO and Thailand’s Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) organized a two-day training on the WaPOR platform, equipping national stakeholders with practical skills to monitor water use, assess water productivity, and support informed water management decisions.

FAO and Thailand’s Office of the National Water Resources (ONWR) brought together local communities, water user groups, and government agencies in the Prasae River Basin to validate findings from the ScaleWat water tenure assessment and identify practical solutions for sustainable water governance.

FAO and its partners convened over 70 stakeholders in Bangkok to validate findings from Thailand’s water tenure assessment. The meeting highlighted climate-related water stress, governance challenges, and opportunities to strengthen responsible water management across river basins.

Representatives from Cambodia, Indonesia, Lao PDR, and Thailand shared national experiences and solutions, emphasizing collaboration and effective water management tools. Discussions highlighted increasing water scarcity across the Asia-Pacific region and the importance of strategic water allocation and robust water accounting systems to ensure sustainable use amid competing demands.

Three officers from the Samoa Forestry Division have successfully completed an intensive, hands-on training programme focused on Sustainable Teak and Pine Production and Management, held from 25 to 29 May 2026 in Suva, Fiji. The initiative was collaboratively organized by the Ministry of Forestry Fiji and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO).