The latest customs statistics reveal signs of recovery in China's shrimp import market after a prolonged downturn. April saw a rebound in warm-water shrimp imports, with Ecuadorian products performing particularly well and further consolidating their market dominance. The International Food Exhibition will offer more information about import and export.

Data shows that last month China imported over 70,000 metric tons of warm-water shrimp, valued at approximately $360 million. Compared to the same period last year, import volume increased by 5%, while import value rose by 6%. Notably, the South American supplier Ecuador dominated the market, exporting more than 52,000 metric tons in a single month—capturing three-quarters of China's import share—an 11% year-on-year increase, with an import value of $244 million.  

In contrast, traditional supplier India continued to underperform. April shrimp imports from India totaled just over 10,000 metric tons, an 11% year-on-year decline, marking the fourth consecutive month of negative growth. Cumulative imports of Indian shrimp in the first four months of the year fell to less than 33,200 metric tons, a sharp 21% drop compared to the same period last year, hitting a three-year low.

The International Food Exhibition notes that meanwhile, some emerging suppliers saw explosive growth. Venezuela's exports to China surged by 245% year-on-year, while Myanmar's shipments also achieved a significant 138% increase.  

Industry analysts point out that the sustained decline in Indian shrimp imports reflects weakening demand from Chinese processors for headless shrimp. From January to April this year, cumulative warm-water shrimp imports nationwide reached nearly 270,000 metric tons, down 9% year-on-year. However, total import value bucked the trend, rising 1% to $1.45 billion, indicating an approximately 11% year-on-year increase in average import prices.  

Market observers note that since 2024, China's shrimp imports have ended a decade-long growth cycle. The market has remained sluggish over the past six months, primarily due to weaker domestic demand, rising local aquaculture output, and intensified competition from alternative seafood products.

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

Source: UCN news

If there is infringement, please contact delete.