Zhongshan, february 2025 | author M. Ricksen
Wouter: It’s not the most obvious career path, I agree. But it all started during my hydrology studies in the Netherlands. I’ve always been fascinated by water and the ecosystems it supports. When I started looking deeper into the dire state of global fish stocks, I felt compelled to do something. The challenge of meeting the growing demand for seafood while protecting our oceans was what ultimately brought me to China.
Why China specifically?
Wouter: For several reasons. First, the domestic market here is enormous. Then there’s the excellent distribution network that connects China to the rest of the world. And, of course, the operational costs are relatively low, which gave us the chance to start small and scale up over time.
Tell us more about Houfusi. What do you do exactly?
Wouter: Houfusi is a small, informal company with a big mission. We run a sustainable fish farm and produce artificial seawater. Our fish farm focuses on high-quality seafood, using eco-friendly methods. When it comes to seawater, we deliver custom-made solutions to clients, ranging from aquariums and research institutions to large-scale fish farms. With our own labs and production facilities, we can cater to a wide range of needs.
Wouter: The beauty of artificial seawater is that you have complete control over its composition. Using our “mixing and dosing system,” clients can create perfect seawater at the push of a button, tailored to their specific requirements. It eliminates dependency on natural sources, minimizes the risk of contamination, and avoids issues like pollution or disease that come with natural seawater. Plus, transporting seawater in bulk is costly and inefficient. Our solution is simple, scalable, and sustainable.
And you handle all of this in-house?
Wouter: Exactly. Our team has a high level of specialized academic expertise, which is a big advantage. We keep communication lines short, making us highly flexible. If a customer has a specific request, we can respond quickly. Our focus on Western-style management and quality is another strength. We don’t just sell a product—we provide complete peace of mind for our clients.
Wouter: I’m involved in everything—from strategic decisions to operational tasks. Being part of a small team means everyone takes on multiple roles. My father, who serves as an advisor, is a great sounding board for ideas. Honestly, I thrive on the dynamic nature of it all—it keeps me energized.
How do you stay balanced? You must have a lot on your plate.
Wouter: That’s true, but I always make time for my hobbies. Diving is one of my passions. It reminds me why I do this work—being immersed in the underwater world is a constant source of inspiration. I also enjoy spending time in nature and working on entrepreneurial ideas. It helps me stay sharp and motivated.
Wouter: Absolutely. Jumjee is my anchor. She understands the challenges of running a business and has always been incredibly supportive. We live here in Zhongshan together, and I couldn’t do this without her.
What does the future hold for Houfusi?
Wouter: We’re scaling up production. Currently, we have a capacity for producing 350 million liters of water per year, but demand and production capacity is keeps growing. We also want to invest more in research and development to offer even better solutions. Our vision is to set an example of how sustainability and business can go hand in hand.
Lastly, what do you hope people remember about Houfusi?
Wouter: That we’re not just a company but a passionate team combining science, nature, and innovation. Whether it’s our fish farming or artificial seawater, everything we do is rooted in quality and sustainability. We want to show the world that small steps can make a big impact.
