The Alabama catfish farming sector saw a third consecutive year of growth last year with sales reaching $120 million (€113.7 million), 20 percent higher than 2013 sales, according to theAssociated Press.
Last year's total US catfish sales came to $386 million (€366 million).
Most farms are in west and central Alabama. The sector employs 6,000 people and generates an annual state economic impact of more than $158 million (€149.8 million), according to the news site.
The Catfish Farmers of America hopes to see the new catfish inspection program improve fish quality in the market, and catfish industry leaders feel consumer confidence will grow in coming years, according to the news site.
