A trade mission of industry and government representatives is exploring opportunities to increase exports of Atlantic Canada lobster to China, says Prince Edward Island Fisheries, Aquaculture and Rural Development Minister Neil LeClair.
“This trade mission is an ongoing part of our five point lobster plan which includes the development of new markets and products,” said Mr. LeClair. “We have been actively working to help improve returns to the lobster industry, and look forward to building upon the relationships we have established in key export markets.”
The trade mission is a partnership with the department, Innovation PEI, the New Brunswick Department of Aquaculture, Agriculture and Fisheries and the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. While in China, it will focus on developing and expanding lobster markets through promotions and culinary demonstrations to seafood importers, distributors and media in Shanghai and Hangzhou. It will also have an exhibit at the China Fisheries and Seafood Expo in Dalian from November 2 to 4. That is the largest seafood expo in Asia.
Members of the Prince Edward Island trade mission include representatives of Ocean Choice International, Mariner Seafoods, Milligan Fisheries and the Prince Edward Island Fishermens Association.
A similar trade mission visited China in the fall of 2009 and, earlier this year, a delegation of Chinese travel and food writers visited Prince Edward Island to gain a first-hand knowledge of the lobster and other fisheries. China represents a major export opportunity for Prince Edward Island seafood products. Exports to that country now exceed half a million dollars annually.
“We are working very hard to develop new markets which will lead to increased demand for our distinctive seafood products and which will provide higher returns to the industry,” said Mr. LeClair. “I am pleased with the partnerships we have established with industry and with other levels of government to promote Atlantic Canada lobsters and other seafood products in international markets.”