INITIATIVE
A new global standard for the aquaculture industry
The emergence of common rules, such as those found in the internet and smartphones,
has fostered competition and led to explosive market growth. We aim to create a new market where anyone can enter and expand using common rules
by standardizing the AQUAXMGRID standard internationally.
- 2025
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Technical standards PoC completed;
demonstration system operational. - 2026
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AQUAXMGRID Initiative Established
- 2027
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Joint research with leading Nordic institutions
and European international collaborative projects - 2029
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ISO/TC234 standard application
What is a PoC (Proof of Concept)?
This stage involves verifying and confirming whether a technology or idea actually works using a small-scale system.
AQUAXMGRID has completed this stage with the operation of its demonstration system on the University of the Ryukyus campus.
What is ISO/TC234?
This is an ISO expert committee that develops international standards in the fisheries, aquaculture, and marine products sectors.
Norway serves as the secretariat country, and it sets rules that affect the entire industry from a global perspective, including specifications for aquaculture equipment, environmental standards, and data management methods. Companies, research institutions, and government agencies from all over the world participate.
Certification of a standard by this committee means that the technology is recognized as a “world standard.”
Message from the Secretariat

Setting the “world standard” for land-based aquaculture, now for those who are creating it.
While global demand for seafood is expanding year after year, land-based aquaculture has remained accessible.”
Our AQUAXMGRID initiative aims to change this structure itself by establishing technical standards that enable “anyone, anywhere” to enter land-based aquaculture through modularization and standardization. Centered on research originating from the University of the Ryukyus, we are currently in the stage of conducting demonstrations toward international standardization, with collaboration between industry, government, and academia both domestically and internationally.
Joining us as a member at this stage, before the standards are finalized, is more than just getting a head start on technical information. Participating in the rule-making process for standardization itself will help shape the future of the aquaculture industry. We look forward to your participation.
Kazune Shimo, Public Relations Director, AQUAXMGRID Initiative Secretariat
Creating a new standard that transcends industry boundaries
The AQUAXMGRID initiative is not just for aquaculture businesses;
it is worthwhile for all companies that would benefit from the standardization and widespread adoption of land-based aquaculture to participate.

You can participate in the formation of new criteria for loan and investment decisions in the land-based aquaculture sector.

You can participate in shaping the market in which compliant products and systems enter.

We can be involved in establishing innovative insurance product designs for aquaculture businesses.

This lowers the barriers to entry for your products into international markets.

You can directly apply the knowledge you’ve gained on-site to international standards.
Membership System
All members can participate in working groups and directly contribute to the technical standards development process. Furthermore, there are three membership levels based on the level of participation.



Associate Member
JPY 400,000 / year
◯ Participation in technical standard development through WGs
General Member Voting rights
JPY 600,000 / year
◯ Participation in technical standard development through WGs
Board Members Voting rights
JPY 900,000 / year
◯ Participation in technical standard development through WGs
◯ Participation in management through the Board
A working group open to all members (planned)
List of Participating Organizations








Initiative Joining Process
Why don’t we take the first step together?
If you wish to participate in the AQUAXMGRID initiative, please apply using the dedicated form.
Individual consultations are currently being offered.
For those who are considering participating but haven’t decided yet, or who would like to hear more about the impact on their business, the secretariat is accepting individual consultations and online information sessions at any time.
For media inquiries and other questions, please contact us here.




