Canada's fish and seafood exports top $4 billion

"Key to our success in a global economy is developing new markets for high-quality Canadian products," said Minister Hearn. "With fish and seafood product exports to 128 countries in 2006, Canada's export statistics illustrate that there is a demand around the world for Canadian fish and seafood."

In 2006, Canada's seafood exports totalled $4.1 billion. The top five export markets accounted for over 80% of Canada's total fish and seafood exports during the year. The United States remains Canada's largest export destination, accounting for 62% of Canada's total fish and seafood exports ($2.5 billion). Japan ranked second ($342 million), followed by China ($276 million), Denmark ($125 million), and United Kingdom ($111 million).

Lobster, farmed Atlantic salmon, shrimp and snow crab were the country's principal exports in 2006. Quantities of exports were higher for all four species and their combined export values reached $2.4 billion, just over half of the total exports covering all species. Lobster exports were valued at over $1 billion, followed by Atlantic salmon ($512 million), shrimp ($456 million) and snow crab ($426 million). The average price for lobster and Atlantic salmon exports increased between 2005 and 2006, while the period saw lower average prices for shrimp and snow crab exports. Other major exports for the year included herring, scallops and hake.

In 2006, British Columbia was the largest exporting province at $987 million, with its top-valued products - farmed Atlantic salmon, herring and hake - accounting for $433 million. Nova Scotia was the second largest exporting province at $974 million, with its top-valued products -lobster, shrimp and scallops accounting for $589 million. Newfoundland ranked third, with exports worth $798.2 - shrimp, snow crab and mackerel being its highest-selling products. New Brunswick ranked fourth at $795 million, Quebec ranked fifth at $203 million, and Prince Edward Island came in sixth at $194 million.

These international trade figures were released in advance of the International Boston Seafood Show, which is taking place March 11-13, 2007. Recognized as the number one seafood venue for buyers and sellers in North America, the show attracts thousands of industry professionals from around the world.

"The International Boston Seafood Show provides an excellent market to promote our high-quality fish and seafood to an international audience," said Minister Hearn.