Seaweed cultivation has gained significant attention due to its wide range of benefits, including food, feed, biofuels, chemicals, nutraceuticals, medicines, cosmetics, and environmental bioremediation. However, comprehensive assessments from various perspectives are essential to ensure sustainable cultivation. Biotic factors such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other algae, and abiotic factors like temperature, salinity, light intensity, and nutrient availability significantly impact seaweed yield. Pests and diseases further complicate the issue, leading to potential crop losses. This study highlights the potential of macroalgae cultivation and emphasizes the need for scientific advancements. It reviews the latest developments in seaweed cultivation, including breeding and genetic improvement, automation and optimization of aquaculture systems, and bio-refining of seaweed biomass. The global market for seaweed farming and its products was estimated at USD 5.9 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% until 2027. Seaweed farming can address food shortages, climate change, and contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It offers solutions for poverty eradication, food security, climate action, and sustainable consumption and production. Seaweed farming can also provide sustainable livelihoods, promote gender equality, improve water quality, and enhance habitat for coastal aquatic species. The cultivation methods include hatchery and open-sea cultivation, with each method having its own advantages and challenges. Recent trends in seaweed cultivation include innovative projects and research aimed at boosting profitability and sustainability. However, biotic and abiotic factors pose significant challenges, such as ice-ice disease, epiphyte outbreaks, and environmental pressures. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the long-term success and sustainability of the seaweed industry.Seaweed cultivation has gained significant attention due to its wide range of benefits, including food, feed, biofuels, chemicals, nutraceuticals, medicines, cosmetics, and environmental bioremediation. However, comprehensive assessments from various perspectives are essential to ensure sustainable cultivation. Biotic factors such as bacteria, fungi, viruses, and other algae, and abiotic factors like temperature, salinity, light intensity, and nutrient availability significantly impact seaweed yield. Pests and diseases further complicate the issue, leading to potential crop losses. This study highlights the potential of macroalgae cultivation and emphasizes the need for scientific advancements. It reviews the latest developments in seaweed cultivation, including breeding and genetic improvement, automation and optimization of aquaculture systems, and bio-refining of seaweed biomass. The global market for seaweed farming and its products was estimated at USD 5.9 billion in 2019 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 9.1% until 2027. Seaweed farming can address food shortages, climate change, and contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). It offers solutions for poverty eradication, food security, climate action, and sustainable consumption and production. Seaweed farming can also provide sustainable livelihoods, promote gender equality, improve water quality, and enhance habitat for coastal aquatic species. The cultivation methods include hatchery and open-sea cultivation, with each method having its own advantages and challenges. Recent trends in seaweed cultivation include innovative projects and research aimed at boosting profitability and sustainability. However, biotic and abiotic factors pose significant challenges, such as ice-ice disease, epiphyte outbreaks, and environmental pressures. Addressing these challenges is crucial for the long-term success and sustainability of the seaweed industry.