The introduction of modern fisheries technology in the ASEAN region in the '60s spurred the growth of the industry as one of the most important economic activities in the region. However, this growth concentrated only on the short-term management objectives and increasing fish production, rather than a long-term comprehensive management of fisheries. Various stakeholders, including government fisheries agencies have realized that increasing fish production does not necessarily indicate a sustainable use of aquatic resources and the environment.

ASEAN-SEAFDEC holds Fisheries Millennium Conference. (2001, November 23-29). The News Today, p. 10.