Export Opportunities at China Fisheries and Seafood Expo 2013
Drive New Economic Activity in the Fishery

Minister and Trade Delegation Promote Provincial Seafood in Asian Markets

Provincial seafood producers pursued international business opportunities this week with Provincial Government support as they participated in the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo 2013, one of the world’s largest seafood trade shows.

The producers were joined by the Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture, as they conducted business among the 900 companies and 17,000 visitors from 84 countries in attendance.

“Some provincial seafood producers are taking their first steps into international markets, while others are already well-established throughout the world, but all are benefiting from the Provincial Government’s support at these trade shows, and its investment of $6 million in marketing assistance since 2006.”
- The Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture

The Provincial Government organized booth space within the Expo’s Canadian Pavilion to promote provincial seafood products, and to provide a base of operations for Green Seafoods, Newfound Resources, the Newfoundland Aquaculture Industries Association, Ocean Fresh Mussel Growers, Sunrise Fish Farms, Harbour Grace Shrimp Company, and Fogo Island Co-op as they marketed their products and met with seafood buyers. Ocean Choice International and Whitecap International Seafood Exporters also attended the Expo, and maintained their own booths within the Canada pavilion.

Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries, and building a vibrant economy.

QUICK FACTS

• The China Fisheries and Seafood Expo 2013 held in Dalian, China from November 5-7 was attended by provincial seafood producers and Minister Hutchings.
• Provincial seafood exports to China grew in value from $153 million in 2006 to more than $214 million in 2012 – an increase of almost 40 per cent, making China the second largest importer of provincial seafood behind the United States.
• The Provincial Government and industry have participated in the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo every year since 2006.

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Media contact:
Jason Card
Director of Communications
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
709-729-3733, 699-0470
jasoncard@gov.nl.ca 

2013 11 07                                10:40 a.m.