TRIBUTE

Greek Aquaculture Pioneer Ioannis Stefanis Passes Away

Athens, Greece, 26 August 2025 | HAPO describes Stefanis as visionary leader remembered for modernizing Greek Aquaculture and shaping Europe’s fish farming sector

John Stephanis - FEAPIoannis Stefanis during FEAP's Annual General Meeting in Stockholm

The Greek aquaculture sector is mourning the loss of Ioannis Stefanis, a pioneering figure whose vision and leadership helped modernise and internationalise the industry. His passing was confirmed this week by the Hellenic Aquaculture Producers’ Organisation (HAPO).

HAPO described Stefanis as a pioneer whose dedication and forward-looking approach left “an indelible mark” on Greece’s aquaculture landscape. His work not only drove the sector’s growth but also laid the foundations for international expansion and innovation.

Stefanis was best known as the founder of Selonda Aquaculture, one of Greece’s earliest gilthead seabream and European seabass enterprises to be publicly listed and to expand abroad. The company later merged with Andromeda and Nireus in 2019, underscoring the scale and influence of his legacy.

Beyond his national achievements, Stefanis played a central role in shaping European aquaculture. He was instrumental in establishing the European Aquaculture Technology and Innovation Platform (EATiP) and served as president of the Federation of European Aquaculture Producers (FEAP).

At FEAP’s 57th Annual General Meeting in Stockholm in May 2025, as reported by misPeces, Stefanis was honoured for his lifelong contributions. He received the FEAP Award for Excellence in European Aquaculture, in recognition of his transformative impact on the sector.

Colleagues across Greece and Europe have expressed their condolences, paying tribute to Stefanis as a mentor, innovator, and strategic leader.

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