Construction starts on barramundi hatchery project in Saudi Arabia
MAT-KULING to supply recirculating aquaculture systems
SAUDI ARABIA – A new barramundi hatchery project in Al Lith, Saudi Arabia, has moved into the construction stage as National Aquaculture Group advances plans to expand its aquaculture output.
The development is being carried out in collaboration with Norwegian firm MAT-KULING, which has initiated procurement, equipment supply, and on-site construction activities for the facility.
The hatchery is designed to produce up to 40 million barramundi (Lates calcarifer) fry each year using compact recirculating aquaculture systems tailored for high-volume operations.
Project specifications
The planned infrastructure includes four broodstock units, three larval rearing systems, and additional installations dedicated to live feed production, such as rotifers and Artemia.
The site will also feature 85 prefabricated tanks of varying capacities constructed from thermoplastic materials intended for durability and operational efficiency.
The main hatchery building will cover 3,412 square metres, while the total constructed area is expected to reach 4,143 square metres.
Technology and operations
The facility is set to integrate automated feeding systems, programmable logic controller technology with human-machine interfaces, and multiple independent water recirculation loops.
Biosecurity measures have been incorporated into the layout through defined zoning systems aimed at reducing contamination risks and maintaining controlled production conditions.
The agreement between NAQUA and MAT-KULING was signed in May 2025 by senior executives from both organisations, including NAQUA’s Chief Aquaculture Officer, Dr Dusan Munjin and MAT-KULING representatives Taner Bilgic and Bjørn Dørum.
Expansion plans
The hatchery forms part of NAQUA’s wider strategy to increase finfish output, which currently stands at around 15,000 tonnes per year from barramundi farming operations alongside its shrimp production activities.
The project aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 framework, which includes targets to increase domestic aquaculture production and reduce reliance on seafood imports.
Earlier announcements of the partnership were made during a signing event attended by Norwegian government officials, showing ongoing cooperation between the two countries in aquaculture development.
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