Seagriculture EU 2025 Gathers Over 200 Global Seaweed Experts

23 June 2025

Klass Eissens at Seagriculture EU 2025. (Image credit: Seagriculture EU)

Seagriculture EU 2025, one of the leading conferences for the seaweed industry, successfully brought together more than 200 participants from 26 countries in Rotterdam from 17–19 June. This year’s theme, “Seaweed 2.0: Today’s Scaling for Tomorrow’s Needs,” underscored the industry’s need to scale responsibly and collaboratively in response to growing global demand for sustainable solutions.

The event served as a platform to unite stakeholders across the seaweed value chain – including producers, policymakers, researchers, investors, and buyers – to foster synergies and build a resilient, scalable infrastructure for the future of the industry.

Field Visits Kick Off with Practical Insights

On 17 June, participants had the opportunity to choose between two in-depth site visits:

Hortimare showcased their culture collection and cultivation systems, shared how they approach breeding, support farming operations, and several other aspects – offering a glimpse into how science and commercial development intersect to support sustainable seaweed farming.
NIOZ – Royal Netherlands Institute for Sea Research hosted a scientific meeting in collaboration with the NWO-KIC projects CircAqua, SeaSeeds, and From Sea to Society. Attendees explored seaweed research through a mix of oral and poster presentations.

Engaging Program Highlighted Innovation and Collaboration

From 18–19 June, the main conference featured five plenary sessions, two panel discussions, and the Seaweed Elevator Pitches, a fast-paced format that allowed for broad project exposure and idea sharing. Nearly 50 speakers shared diverse insights on applications, farming practices, and regulatory developments in the seaweed sector. The program also featured sessions such as ‘Professionalizing the Seaweed Industry: Learning from Pioneers,’ ‘Collaboration as a Tool for a Successful Seaweed Industry,’ and ‘Roadmap for the European Seaweed Industry,’ among others. Notable speakers included Stefan Kraan (Oceana Organic Products Ltd), Annette Bruhn (Aarhus University), Sander van den Burg (Wageningen Social & Economic Research), Kees Joziasse (TotalEnergies Corbion), Pierre Paslier (Notpla), Christelle Sapata (PwC Luxembourg), Richard Piechocki (Rabobank), Rita Sousa (Faber), Maria Hayes (Teagasc), and many more.

Dynamic Trade Show and Networking

More than 15 exhibitors presented their latest technologies, equipment and services at the Seagriculture trade show, which was a central hub for networking and hands-on interaction. The exhibition area saw strong engagement, with delegates connecting directly with stakeholders in the industry and exploring new solutions.

Additionally, some 30 participants presented posters showcasing their latest research and projects, enriching the scientific and technical discourse.

“This year’s edition offered a high-quality program and meaningful networking opportunities. We’re proud to support the community as it grows and connects,” said Kuno Jacobs, Managing Director at DLG Benelux, the event organizer.

Tech-Enabled Networking and Memorable Social Events

This year’s event once again leveraged a dedicated networking app, enabling over 140 pre-scheduled meetings, real-time updates, and streamlined communication among attendees. The tool significantly enhanced engagement and collaboration throughout the event.

A highlight of the social program was the conference dinner at BlueCity, where attendees enjoyed scenic views of the Rotterdam skyline and river while networking over local cuisine and drinks on a sunny evening.

Advancing the Seaweed Industry Together

Seagriculture EU continues to drive innovation, market development, and sustainable practices in the seaweed sector. By bringing together a global community of experts and stakeholders, the 2025 edition has further helped to strengthen the foundation for seaweed to play a meaningful role in the transition toward more sustainable and climate-conscious solutions.