Latest trade figures reveal U.S. imports of Chinese bay scallops skyrocketed to 2,109 metric tons in February 2025 - a staggering 400% year-on-year surge, marking the highest monthly volume in nearly seven years. This astonishing figure accounted for half of America's total scallop imports that month, drawing widespread industry attention. The International Food Exhibition will offer more information about import and export.

Import Rush Reaches Fever Pitch  

Data from NOAA shows the average transaction price for Chinese scallops dropped to $2.40/lb in February, down 8% from January. Despite lower prices, U.S. importers still paid $2.4 million in tariffs. Industry insiders attribute this anomaly to impending tariff hikes - rates were scheduled to climb from 10% to 34% starting February 4, with retaliatory measures potentially pushing combined tariffs to 145%.  

Trade Landscape in Turmoil  

"While Chinese scallops avoided the latest tariff list, existing 25% Section 301 duties have importers on edge," noted veteran trade analyst Li Ming. Historical data shows China was America's top scallop supplier in 2018 with 9,622 metric tons annually. But by 2024, exports had plummeted to 5,173 metric tons as Japan captured market share amid rising trade barriers.  

Domestic Industry in Decline  

The International Food Exhibition notes that the struggling U.S. scallop fishery has intensified import reliance. The 2024-25 season yielded just 15.6 million pounds - 35% below projections. Though next season's catch is forecast at 18 million pounds, a three-week delay in opening the fishery compounds supply chain pressures.  

Alternative Sources Prove Problematic  

Japanese scallops currently dominate the $176 million U.S. market but face uncertainty as their 10% preferential tariff expires in 90 days. "Without a new U.S.-Japan agreement, tariff resets will inflate consumer prices," warned trade expert Wang Qiang. While some buyers explore Peruvian alternatives, building new supply chains takes time.  

Industry at Crossroads  

Chinese scallops now face potential combined tariffs reaching 170%, far exceeding Japanese products' exposure. Exporters already paid over $7 million in 2024 tariffs - sustained high rates could erase profit margins entirely.  

This trade conflict highlights a fundamental tension: The U.S. foodservice industry's reliance on Chinese scallops' cost advantage (30% cheaper than Japanese product) clashes with political trade friction. As tariffs get passed to consumers, market dynamics may shift permanently.  

Industry observers view the export spike as a last hurrah before full tariffs hit. Chinese producers must choose between third-country processing or new markets, while U.S. importers face the complex challenge of supply chain diversification. The clock is ticking for all players in this high-stakes trade drama.

If you would like to learn more about the food industry, please visit the SIAL China website for more information.

Source: Frozen product guide

If there is infringement, please contact delete.