FREDERICTON (GNB) – Several New Brunswick seafood companies are participating in the world’s largest seafood show being held April 21-23 in Brussels, Belgium.

"We have committed to working with fish harvesters, processors and other industry stakeholders to add value by expanding markets for our fish and seafood products, particularly in Europe and Asia,” said Agriculture, Aquaculture and Fisheries Minister Rick Doucet.

New Brunswick is one of the largest exporters of fish and seafood products in Canada, with exports of more than $1 billion in 2013 and 2014. The industry is economically important and employs more than 7,000 people.

The Canada-European Union Trade Agreement was signed in principle last fall. Once it enters into force, the agreement will provide Canada with preferential market access to the world’s largest importer of fish and seafood. Seafood Expo GLOBAL in Brussels marks the first time New Brunswick companies can build global partnerships with the certainty of upcoming reduced or eliminated tariffs.

“New Brunswick has some of the world’s best seafood products, but I am particularly proud of our leadership in sustainable management practices,” said Doucet. “Until now, sustainable and certified products have enjoyed a certain premium level of demand, but with exposure to larger markets and reduced tariffs, sustainable practices can become viable for mass markets. That means we can raise the bar globally to ensure better stewardship of our fish and seafood resources.”

The Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global attracts more than 25,000 buyers and suppliers of fresh, frozen, packaged and value-added seafood products, equipment and services from 150 countries.

This year, New Brunswick companies in the Canadian Pavilion are:

  • Bumble Bee Seafoods International, Blacks Harbour;
  • Orion Seafood International / Chicken of the Sea Frozen Foods, Shediac;
  • Partner Seafood Inc., Shediac
  • Produits Belle Baie Ltée, Caraquet; and
  • Shediac Lobster Shop, Shediac.

In addition Cooke Aquaculture / True North Salmon Co. Ltd. of Blacks Harbour will have their own stand-alone booth at the show.

“Our investment in attending this international show has an enormous impact on our ability to attract European customers, grow our markets and create more jobs here at home,” said Doucet.

 

21-04-15