Book excerpt: This is the report of the consultation on Aquaculture for Sustainable Rural Development jointly organised by FAO and NACA in Chiang Rai, Thailand on 29-31 March 1999 to develop the detailed structure of a regional programme on aquaculture for sustainable rural development and propose a strategy for its implementation. The consultation took an overview of the relevant information emerging form presentations of country reports; lessons learned by specific projects; experiences of regional and international organizations and donor agencies; and findings of expert reviews. More sharply focused examination of critical issues, and discussions on specific components of the draft Programme concept were followed through parallel working group (WG) discussions.