Myanmar is rich in both freshwater and marine fisheries resources. In Myanmar fish culture started in 1953. By 1988 there were only 6,300 acres of fishponds. At present the area of fish culture is over 45,460 hectares.

The Department of Fisheries plays a vital role in national aquaculture development. There are 14 fisheries stations country wise for fish seed production. The objectives of the station are-

-To produce quality fish seeds

-To provide fish seed to fish farmers and stock replenishing activities

-To impart technical knowledge on aquaculture and expertise to fish farmers through extension services and

-To produce appropriate research and training.

Currently, twelve kinds of freshwater fish are being cultivated:- these are Rohu, Calla, Mrigal, Common carp, Grass carp, Big Head carp, Silver carp, Red tilapia, Hybrid catfish, Rohtee and stripped catfish.

Further more, discovered namely three new species, are Freshwater Pompret, Feather back and Tapian, among them Tapian are very popular so far.

With increasing production of freshwater fish, the role of cold storage and ice factory where fish are processed for export standard has became very important.

Cold storage and ice factories installed with modern equipment are now processing and packaging high quality products for export.

Products from the factories are free of biological and chemical agents or substances that can affect consumers’ health.