The review summarizes status and trends of aquaculture development in North America for the period 2010-2015 and concentrates on activities in Canada and the United States of America. Relevant aspects of the social and economic background of each country are followed by a description of current and evolving aquaculture practices (species, methods, amounts and values) and the needs of the industry in terms of resources, services and technologies. Impacts of aquacultural practices on the environment are discussed, followed by a consideration of the industry’s response to market demands and opportunities and its contribution to social and economic development at the regional, national and international levels. External pressures on the sector, including climate change and economic events are described, along with associated changes in governance. The review concludes with an analysis of North American aquaculture’s contribution to the UN Sustainable Development Goals, the FAO Strategic Objectives, and the FAO Blue Growth Initiative. Throughout the review, outstanding issues and success stories are identified and a way forward suggested for each main topic.