A contingent of Scottish seafood companies are heading to the Japan Seafood Expo bolstered by the news that exports east are soaring, increasing fourfold in a year.
Exports rose to more than 2,630 tonnes in 2018, up from 598 tonnes the previous year thanks in part to the Japan export support programme delivered by Seafood Scotland and Scottish Development International which has made a significant difference by educating trade buyers and maximising opportunities.
This year's delegation at the expo marks the largest representation yet, with two of the companies, JPL Shellfish and Associated Seafoods, attending the show for the first time.
Neil Greig, commercial director at Associated Seafoods, said, “We already have a track record of delivering excellent quality and service to a number of leading global retailers and believe Japan represents a major opportunity. The support and guidance we have received from Seafood Scotland in the past in opening new markets has been invaluable and we see them playing an important role as we move forward in Japan."
The Japan Seafood Expo 2019 plays host to buyers, wholesalers, distributors together with representatives from the retail and restaurant trades and will expect around 35,000 visitors. Attending from Scotland will be Hebridean Smokehouse, Denholm Seafoods, Lunar, Scottish Salmon Company, Scottish Fishermen’s Organisation, The Crab Company Scotland, Northbay Pelagic, Associated Seafoods, JPL Shellfish and Mowi.
In addition to attending the expo, the Scottish contingent is hosting a ‘Taste of Scotland’ seafood reception at the ambassador’s residence in the British Embassy to form new ties with buyers and chefs.
