NR-HQ-00-06E

Dhaliwal announces record year for Canada on fish and seafood exports

March 7, 2000

BOSTON – Canada’s exports of fish and seafood products reached a record high of $3.7 billion in 1999, Herb Dhaliwal, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, announced today at the International Boston Seafood Show.

"I am extremely pleased with Canada’s impressive export figures in the fish and seafood sector," said Mr. Dhaliwal. "This is the second year in a row we have achieved a record high. Canada is building a strong foundation based on conservation, allowing our industry to take full advantage of international market opportunities."

Exports to the United States showed strong growth, rising from $2.14 billion in 1998 to $2.58 billion in 1999, a 21 per cent increase. The bulk of the increase is attributed to surging exports of crab and lobster. The United States market remains the premier destination for Canadian fish and seafood products. Exports to the European Union also increased by nine per cent.

As the sixth largest exporter of fishery products to more than 100 countries around the world, Canada’s competitive strength reflects the fact it has one of the richest and most diversified resource bases in the world. The United States, Japan and the European Union continue to account for more than 90 per cent of the value of exports.

"Conservation of fish stocks and responsible fishing and aquaculture practices are the foundation on which we are building an economically sustainable and prosperous industry," said Mr. Dhaliwal. "Conservation-based initiatives such as the Canadian Code of Conduct for Responsible Fishing Operations and Canada’s ratification and implementation of the United Nations Fish Agreement are solid investments that are key to securing long-term economic opportunities for Canadians in the fish and seafood sector."

Mr. Dhaliwal is in Boston to tour the Seafood Show, meet with seafood industry representatives and promote the Canadian seafood industry.

The International Boston Seafood Show is one of the largest and most comprehensive seafood shows in the world, with more than 750 exhibitors from over 25 countries, including over 85 exhibitors from Canada. The show runs from March 7 to 9, 2000.