Production of Pacific oyster shells decreased by 30 per cent from the 2012 total. Although Pacific oyster production for on-growing has significantly increased (95 per cent) from 3,190,000 shells in 2012 to 6,216,000 shells in 2013.
There has been an increase in queen scallop production but a decrease in scallop production, production for on-growing of both queens and scallops has increased since 2012.
Native oyster production dropped from 317,000 to 260,000 shells in 2013. The sector continues to target a strong niche market.
Employment levels decreased by seven per cent to 333 people from the 2012 total of 358, due to a reduction in the number of authorised businesses in 2013.
Overall estimated value of the industry increased to £8.9 million in 2013 from the 2012 total of £8.7 million.
