Institutional Dynamics and Challenges in the Seaweed Industry: A Global Perspective

Abstract

The seaweed industry has experienced rapid growth and has evolved into a strategic sector within the global economy, contributing to food security, the bioeconomy, climate change mitigation, and the substitution of fossil-based materials. This review aimed to clarify the main institutional challenges in the seaweed value chain, compare governance approaches across regions, and propose evidence-based recommendations for inclusive and sustainable policy reform. A systematic literature review of peer-reviewed articles from the Scopus, Web of Science, and FAO databases was conducted, followed by a thematic analysis to distill key governance challenges and transformation strategies. Significant barriers identified include regulatory overlaps, stakeholder conflicts, and unequal access to information and technology. Comparative insights indicate that aligning national policies with local community practices and harmonizing certification schemes can enhance competitiveness and promote downstream value addition. However, social dimensions—particularly gender equity and the inclusion of marginalized groups—remain insufficiently addressed. The findings emphasize the need for adaptive and participatory governance frameworks that integrate both top-down and bottom-up approaches. Key recommendations include fostering transparent multi-actor dialogue, achieving regulatory harmonization, and developing social equity metrics to support inclusive, resilient, and sustainable growth.