Seafood for Trade | Seafish

Seafood for Trade

Find out about the role international trade plays in a thriving UK seafood industry.



The UK seafood industry and trade 

Global trade is vital to the UK seafood industry’s success. It supports jobs and careers, businesses and coastal communities across the country. The UK exports high-quality fish and shellfish to more than 100 countries and imports a wide range of products to meet UK consumer demand. Trade helps balance supply and demand, builds economic resilience and provides year-round choice and variety for UK seafood consumers.  

A strong, responsible trading presence also enhances the industry’s reputation. It demonstrates the UK’s high standards in safety, sustainability, responsible sourcing and traceability. It tells the story of the rich heritage of the UK seafood industry on the global stage.  

Shining a light on how UK fish and shellfish successfully reaches varied marketplaces around the world - and how imports of certain species support our wider supply chain - helps build pride in the sector and address common misconceptions.  

The role and value of trade to seafood businesses 

UK Seafood Trade Report 2024 

Read our latest comprehensive report offering an overview of UK seafood imports and exports. It highlights trends and explores the influence of national, international, and global events on markets

Tapping into trade opportunities 

Learn about what UK businesses get out of exhibiting at the world’s largest seafood event, Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona, Spain. 

Read our Seafood Story via the link below:

People walk past a trade show exhibition while other stand around chatting.
The UK Seafood Pavilion at the 2025 Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona.

Getting your business’ products to global markets 

Steps to success 

If your seafood business is considering exporting, there are eight key steps you should consider. 

Read our blog from Seafish Head of Economics, Insight and Advice Jennifer Robson:

Opportunities in Asia 

Our Regulation team has developed a series of guides about importing and exporting in East Asia, covering Japan, South Korea and Vietnam. 

In April 2025 it was announced that UK businesses can now export live seafood to Vietnam. 

Read our trade guides via the links below:

Interested in accessing markets for your seafood products in Japan? Join the UK Pavilion at the Japan International Seafood & Technology Expo in Tokyo in August 2025. 

Find out how to get involved:

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