ANALYSIS: Constrained Spanish Octopus Supply Drove Challenges Across 2025

Spanish octopus markets continue reflecting the effects of tariff pressures and constrained overseas supply, with 4-6 categories holding mostly within the $6.50-6.75 range amid significant transaction volatility. The sector maintains a full steady character overall, though individual supplier circumstances appear to be creating substantial differences in marketplace approaches.

Import data reveals underlying supply challenges, with US imports from Spain showing consistent year-over-year declines across virtually every month in 2025 compared to 2024. The reduced import volumes appear to reflect the broader structural challenges facing the Spanish...

India's Apex Frozen Foods Sees Recovery as US Tariff Cuts Fuel Export Optimism

Apex Frozen Foods, one of the largest shrimp exporters in India, signaled growing optimism for its shrimp export business following recent reductions in US tariffs, alongside continued growth in European markets and operational adjustments to diversify revenue streams.

In its Q3 2026 earnings call on February 16, the company reported a 15% year-on-year rise in quarterly revenues to INR 264 crore ($32 million), driven primarily by stronger shrimp sales to the European Union and improved price realizations...

High Liner's Sea Cuisine Debuts Guinness Battered Fish and Shrimp in 1,500 Kroger Stores, Costco

Bringing pub classics to the frozen aisle, Sea Cuisine, one of High Liner Foods’ retail brands, introduced Guinness Battered Fish Strips and Shrimp made from wild-caught Alaska pollock and tail-off shrimp coated in a Guinness-infused batter.

The products are now available in roughly 1,500 Kroger-family stores and in Costco club-size packs as the brand eyes broader North American expansion.

Expanding on its existing portfolio of Guinness Foodservice options, High Liner unveiled the Sea Cuisine Guinness Battered Fish Strips and Shrimp...

Frank O’Hara III Takes Helm at Wild Alaska Sole Association

The Board of the Wild Alaska Sole Association (WASA) elected Frank O’Hara III as the group’s new president, it announced on February 18.

Currently, O’Hara serves as the Executive Vice President of the fishing company O’Hara Corporation, which harvests flatfish and other groundfish species in Alaska’s Bering Sea. He will succeed Jim Johnson of North Star Fishing Company, who served as President of WASA since it was created in 2023.

“I’m looking forward to working with WASA and growing markets for our Wild Alaska Sole...

American Seafoods Mourns the Passing of Former CEO and Owner Bernt Bodal

American Seafoods Company is deeply saddened to announce the passing of its former Chief Executive Officer, Bernt Bodal.

Bernt was far more than a leader — he was a force of nature. With a larger-than-life presence, unmistakable energy, and a deep love for Alaska’s fishing communities, he left a lasting imprint on the people and places that define our industry. His personality filled every room he entered, and his passion for the North Pacific and its fisheries helped shape the spirit of modern Alaska fishing as we...

Chilean Fisheries and Aquaculture Exports Surge in January, Driven by African Market Demand

Chile’s fisheries and aquaculture sector experienced significant growth in January 2026, boosting the country's export numbers beyond traditional staples like copper and lithium.

According to an Export Report by ProChile and its Intelligence Department, using data from the National Customs Service, exports saw a 2.1% increase compared to January 2025.

Notably, sector-specific exports reached US $954 million, reflecting a 14% rise from US $837 million year-over-year (YOY). While salmon and trout dominated the export charts with US $731 million...

Frozen and PetCare Units Drive Margin Expansion at Thai Union

Thai Union Group PCL reported record profitability for 2025, with a full-year gross profit margin of 18.9% and earnings per share rising 7.2% as the company navigated tariffs, currency pressures and other external headwinds.

Sales volumes grew 2.5% to 908,000 metric tons (MT) and full-year revenues reached THB 133 billion $4.3 billion), while adjusted operating profit (excluding transformation costs) totaled THB 7 billion. The board approved a total annual dividend of THB 0.70 per share, up 6% from 2024 and representing a 57.7% payout ratio...

US Pushes Fisheries Tech at Asia Pacific Economic Council Amid China Rivalry

President Trump’s administration has launched a $20 million fund to support the adoption of American artificial intelligence (AI) technologies to partner with Southeast Asian economies at the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) meetings in southern China this week. Those exports, including maritime surveillance technology, are a counterpoint to Beijing’s technological and maritime influence, prior to President Trump’s expected visit to China in April and China's hosting of APEC’s annual leaders’ summit in Shenzhen in November.

The Chinese administration intends to narrow the...

Ottawa Takes Action Against Aquatic Invaders.

Canada’s breathtaking landscapes and diverse ecosystems are integral to its national identity, underscoring the urgency of preserving biodiversity and addressing threats like aquatic invasive species. These invaders can swiftly spread, competing with native species and potentially costing Canadians billions.

In a proactive move, the Honourable Joanne Thompson, Minister of Fisheries, has unveiled a new aquatic invasive species survey map. This interactive tool offers a comprehensive overview of detections across Canada, empowering partners, academia, and the public with crucial information.

Moreover, Minister Thompson announced a $1 million...

What Restaurants Need to Succeed: Immigration Reform, Competitive Swipe Fees, & Strong Trade Policy

The National Restaurant Association today released ambitious federal policy priorities that when achieved, will help stabilize the industry workforce, support industry employment growth, cut costs for restaurant operators, and preserve the global supply chain. The priorities include:

• Comprehensive immigration reform
• Bringing down operator costs through passage of Credit Card Competition Act
• Favorable renewal of the U.S.-Mexico-Canada trade agreement (USMCA)

The restaurant and foodservice industry is the nation's second-largest private employer, with more than 15.7 million people...

Sanford appoints Tony Carter as Independent Director

The Board of Sanford Limited is pleased to announce the appointment of Antony (Tony) Carter to the Board as an Independent Director, with effect from today.

Tony has extensive governance experience across a broad range of sectors, including consumer, technology, agriculture, industrial services, infrastructure and energy. He transitioned into governance after a successful executive career, including a decade as Chief Executive and Managing Director at Foodstuffs.

Sanford’s Chair, Sir Rob McLeod, says he is delighted to welcome Tony to the Sanford Board. “We are...

ANALYSIS: EU–UK Shrimp Imports Hit Record Level in December 2025

Eurostat has released the latest EU–UK trade figures, revealing record shrimp purchases of 67,972 metric tonnes (MT) in December. This marked a slight month‑on‑month decline of 1.2% but an impressive 24.4% increase compared to December 2024, confirming the positive trend throughout 2025. Overall shrimp volumes for the year - including warm water and cold water species - rose 8.7% year‑on‑year and 12.0% above the previous five‑year average...

The Retail Rundown: Retail Focus Turns to Lent Promotions

This week in retail, attention is focused on Lent and the broader economic landscape, with inflation back in the spotlight following the latest Consumer Price Index (CPI) release. Although overall inflation showed signs of cooling, food costs continue to edge higher on a monthly basis, keeping value messaging front and center as grocers work to attract price-sensitive consumers.

With the Christian Lenten season now underway, retailers are pivoting quickly. The 40-day period of fasting and reduced meat consumption among Catholics is traditionally a tailwind for seafood, and grocers are leaning into features and promotional pricing to capture traffic...

Kura Sushi Features Authentic Japanese Ingredients in New Kura Reserve Menu

Kura Sushi USA, a pioneer in US revolving sushi restaurants, is showcasing Japanese flavors for a limited time with its latest menu innovations. This Kura Reserve menu is crafted with authentic ingredients sourced from Japan and expertly paired for six new offerings.

The new additions include:

Shima Aji: White trevally fish layered over Kura's specialty rice.

Kanpachi: Known as Almaco Jack or Longfin Yellowtail, this fish from Kagoshima offers a subtly sweet flavor with a tender, smooth texture atop Kura's specialty rice.

Seared Yuzu Infused Albacore...

Russia Boosts Fish Processing Output, Fillet Production Climbs 9%

Russia is increasing fish processing volumes as demand for fish products remains stable, according to the latest data from the Russian Fish Union.

In 2025, Russian companies produced 4.1 million tons of fish and fish products. While frozen fish output declined slightly, production of frozen fish fillets rose. Frozen fish volumes fell 3% to 2.6 million tons, largely due to increased production of more deeply processed products.

Frozen fish fillet output increased by 9% to 253,000 tons. On‑board pollock fillet production reached 102,000 tons in 2025...

Maruha Nichiro Begins Rollout of Umios Brand March 1, 2026; Fisheries Unit to Follow in 2027

Maruha Nichiro’s shift to its new identity as Umios will begin rolling out next month, but not all subsidiaries will make the change simultaneously. Following a Feb. 17 update, the company confirmed that most businesses under the Maruha brand will adopt Umios branding starting March 1, 2026, while its Fisheries Trading Unit companies won’t rebrand until April 1, 2027.

Ahead of the launch, Maruha unveiled 45 new products in spring to help cement the new branding, as Expana reported...

Pokeworks Celebrates a Record-Breaking 2025

Pokeworks is celebrating a record-breaking 2025, showcasing exponential growth and achieving the highest level of franchisee and guest satisfaction ever.

The company's success is reflected in its franchise growth, higher consumer demand, and innovations in its menu, technology, and catering business.

These accomplishments helped earn Pokeworks its place as the most reviewed and highest-rated poke brand in the country, with an average 4.8-star rating across Google Reviews.

"2025 was a defining year for Pokeworks," said Peter Yang, Co-Founder and Head of Development of Pokeworks. "We experienced...

Echo Falls to Showcase Smoked Salmon Party Slices and On‑The‑Go Salmon Bites at SENA 2026

With one month to go before the seafood industry converges on the Boston Convention Center, Echo Falls Seafoods is gearing up to unveil new products at Seafood Expo North America 2026.

Echo Falls will introduce Smoked Norwegian Atlantic Salmon Party Slices at the show. The item is described as suitable for appetizer bases and comes in three flavors: Pepper, Traditional, and Dill.

The company will also showcase Smoked Atlantic Salmon Bites, a product it calls “game-changing” in the retail snack category...

SeaPak Bets on Lent With Family-Friendly Campaign, Teams Up with Child Nutrition Expert Diana Rice

SeaPak is looking to become the answer for families with picky eaters during Lent this year.

The company wants to make Fridays during the season, which sees millions of Americans abstain from meat, into a discovery period for families that may turn to seafood more often as the work week winds down.

SeaPak will look to accomplish its goals through a partnership with child nutrition expert Diana Rice, who will provide families with tips and tricks to create seafood-focused meals during Lent...

NOAA Fisheries Annual Aquaculture Highlights 2025 Showcases Federal Research and Outreach

The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s Aquaculture Program is dedicated to advancing US aquaculture through cutting-edge science, communications, and policies. Its recently released annual report describes the scientific breakthroughs and ongoing support for the nation’s shellfish farmers, finfish, and, now, even plants, in the form of a wide variety of kelp species. 

Compared to farming on land, aquaculture is a far more resource-efficient means to produce protein. It’s also the fastest-growing food production system globally.

“While the United States lags in global aquaculture production...

Walmart Reports Strong Growth in Sales and Revenue in Q4 and Fiscal Results

Walmart has unveiled impressive quarterly and yearly results, demonstrating robust growth across various segments and maintaining its market-leading position.

Walmart President and CEO said, "The pace of change in retail is accelerating. It’s exciting. And our financial results show that we’re not only embracing this change, we’re leading it. For our customers and members, the future is fast, convenient, and personalized.”

Here's a closer look at Walmart's impressive Q4 and fiscal year performance.

Highlights from Q4...

Dr. Jenny Gray Named Monterey Bay Aquarium CEO

Monterey Bay Aquarium has appointed Jenny Gray to lead the organization as Nancy Burgermeister Chief Executive Officer. Dr. Gray is known in the zoo and aquarium industry for her work in animal ethics, welfare, and conservation. She has been Chief Executive Officer of Zoos Victoria, in Australia, since 2007 and served as president of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums for two years. Transitioning from Julie Packard, the Aquarium’s first and only executive director since it opened in 1984, Gray will start in May. Packard will continue to serve...

ASC Appointed To Executive Committee of EU Market Advisory Council

Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has been officially classified as an Other Interest Group (OIG) and nominated to the Executive Committee of the Market Advisory Council (MAC), marking a significant step in ASC’s engagement with European Union market and policy processes.

Established under the EU Common Fisheries Policy, the MAC brings together stakeholders from across the fisheries and aquaculture value chain to provide structured, balanced advice to the European Commission and EU Member States on market-related aspects of fishery and aquaculture products. Its recommendations contribute...

FFAW-Unifor Seeks Dismissal of Price Panel Chair, ASP Backs Murphy Amid Snow Crab Settlement Feud

The union representing snow crab harvesters in Newfoundland and Labrador (NL), FFAW-Unifor, has called for the removal of Standing Fish Price Setting Panel Chair Sheilagh Murphy in a letter to NL Minister Mike Goosney.

FFAW criticized Murphy's public comments, which they say effectively rewrote the Panel’s decision by stating that only 30-lb bulk boxes should be used in calculating the end-of-season settlement payment. The union described this as an “unauthorized intervention” occurring after the decision-making process was complete...

Cooke-Owned Kelly Cove Granted Expansion at Liverpool Bay After Week‑Long Public Hearing

Cooke Aquaculture-owned Kelly Cove Salmon was granted approval to expand its Liverpool Bay salmon farm in Nova Scotia, the company announced Feb. 17.

The Nova Scotia Aquaculture Review Board (ARB) approved changes at the site located offshore from Coffin Island in Liverpool Bay. The decision allows Kelly Cove to add six cages at the site, bringing the total to 20.

Kelly Cove has operated the farm for roughly 15 years in compliance with government regulations, Cooke said...

Iceland Foods Expands ASC-Certified Frozen Seafood Range to 15 SKUs with Salmon, Sea Bass and More

UK retailer Iceland Foods has expanded its Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC)-labeled seafood range with new products launched earlier this month.

The expansion supports the company's goal to increase its ASC-certified products to 25 by the end of 2026, offering consumers a wider selection of sustainable seafood options.

Stuart Lendrum, Director of Product, Process & Sustainability at Iceland Foods, said: “Our customers want reassurance that the products they choose support a healthier planet, and by growing our responsibly sourced seafood range...

Walmart Achieves Record Grocery Growth as Consumer Habits Shift 

According to a quarterly study by dunnhumby, Walmart's grocery penetration in the US has reached a record 72%, driven by the improved financial security of American shoppers aged 18-54. This represents a 6 percentage point increase year-over-year (YOY), the largest growth among all retailers.

Walmart serves over 190 million Americans monthly, 2.5 times more than the second-place Dollar General at 28.6%. The data reveals that mass-channel retailers have, for the first time, equaled traditional supermarkets with a 79% penetration rate...

FLIP Report of Small-Operator Foodservice Sector Shows Optimism and Concern in 2026

A new report finds that nearly 82% of restaurants, food trucks, chefs, and caterers surveyed are confident in their business outlook despite economic pressures.  

The highest level of concern is over food prices. Over 80% of respondents say food prices have the greatest impact on their profits. 

Food Liability Insurance Program (FLIP) released its third annual 2026 Food & Beverage Industry Trends Report last week. FLIP is a national insurance program designed for small to mid-sized operators in the food and beverage industry...

Wynn Resorts and Chef's Table Announce Global Partnership Debuting This Fall

Wynn Resorts and Chef's Table, the brand behind the award-winning Netflix culinary documentary series, are embarking on a new global partnership with a culinary tour-de-force celebration this fall. The partnership will combine world-class dining offerings with an impressive lineup of talent from the renowned series to create and produce original and meaningful programming.

In September, Chef's Table will transform Revelry, the tasting experience at Wynn Las Vegas, into Wynn Revelry by Chef's Table – bringing together...

Global Seafood Alliance at Seafood Expo North America 2026

Seafood Expo North America (SENA) is almost here, and Global Seafood Alliance is gearing up for another energizing few days in Boston. Taking place March 15–17, 2026, SENA brings together the global seafood community for connection, collaboration, and conversations that shape the future of our industry.

Throughout the show, the GSA team will be on site (come say hi to us at Booth 2065!) and ready to connect — whether you’re stopping by to learn more about our certification programs, explore what’s new...