This dissertation consists of six separate essays beginning with an overview of the production and consumption of fish. The remaining essays deal with the current strength and the future direction of aquaculture R&D, , international fish trade and the quality of fish trade data, fish demand analysis, and the estimation of economic benefits for producers and consumers induced by aquaculture R&D., The results underline the importance of aquaculture research and development and of the technology transfer for both producers and consumers. The results would also provide funding agencies and decision makers not to miss a promising research area.