DESPITE a strong currency, Canada has announced a seven per cent increase in the export sales of its fish and seafood products last year.
Fisheries Minister Gail Shea said this was good news, adding: "Fish and seafood is Canada's second largest single food export commodity. Our government is working with all stakeholders to ensure the sustainability of our fisheries. Consumers can be confident that Canadian products are among the best in the world."
She said Canada's fisheries were a valuable natural resource and a significant driver of the national economy. Canadian fish and seafood products are exported around the world and generated more than $3.9 billion in export revenues in 2010, an increase of more than seven per cent from 2009. The biggest market was Canada's next door neighbour, the United States. "The increase in Canada's landings and exports for 2010 demonstrates the trust consumers place in our products worldwide. We are proud of this industry and will continue to support it," added Minister Shea.
Nearly two-thirds (over $2.4 billion) of Canadian fish and seafood exports in 2010 were destined for the United States. The European Union and Japan followed with imports of Canadian products valued at more than $400 million and $300 million respectively. Canada's five most valuable exports by species in 2010 were lobster, Atlantic salmon, snow/queen crab, shrimp and herring.
A number of Canadian seafood companies have found their financial result hit by a strong Canadian dollar over the past year or so. The Government of Canada, including Fisheries and Oceans Canada, took this success story to a global audience at the recent International Boston Seafood Show.
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