In 2022 Ecuador exported more than 1 million MT of shrimp, adding $6.7 billion worth of exports to the country’s economy. © ASC
Held in Guayaquil in Ecuador between 12-14 June 2023, the summit was designed to demonstrate increasing global demand for ASC-certified products and showcase the commitment of Ecuadorian shrimp producers to comply with the highest standards, while providing on-the-ground insights and new commercial possibilities.
Shrimp buyers from the USA, Japan, the UK, France, Germany, Spain and Portugal were in attendance. They benefited from a full programme of events designed to present to them the opportunities around ASC-certified Ecuadorian shrimp. ASC buyers visited SSP members’ facilities – which included ASC-certified farms and processing plants – to witness responsible aquaculture production in action and speak with the people directly involved in these operations.
Hayette Djellouli, a buyer at Groupe Casino, said in a press release: “This trip helped me become aware of the importance of the shrimp industry in Ecuador… Particularly when it comes to the processes required to ensure responsible aquaculture, notably in terms of husbandry practices, marine ecosystems protection, and the ever-present social dimension of aquaculture.”
Marcos Moya, global outreach lead at ASC, added: “We are delighted to have brought together buyers from all over the world to engage with Ecuadorian shrimp producers who are meeting ASC’s highest standards. At ASC we are determined to match growing global demand for certified shrimp with responsible supply. We are excited about the new opportunities that this summit has created and look forward to supporting these new relationships.”
Pamela Nath, director of SSP, emphasised that the summit was an excellent platform for visitors to witness first-hand the special focus that SSP members have on quality, food safety, and responsible production. “Our guests experienced the commitment of SSP members with sustainability, their constant ability to innovate and not only meet market demands, but also exceed expectations,” she concluded.
ASC looks forward to expanding these commercial visits to other producer countries with relevant ASC supply in future.
