Weekly Roundup: EMEA Seafood Industry Updates

By EMEA Editor Neil Ramsden

Champlain Seafood Expands with Acquisition

In a significant move within the seafood industry, Canadian lobster and snow crab giant Champlain Seafood has acquired BA Richard, a well-established lobster processor based in Sainte-Anne-de-Kent, New Brunswick. This acquisition occurs as Champlain Seafood is actively seeking a buyer, according to reports by Undercurrent News.

India Faces Rising Tariffs on Shrimp Exports

India has solidified its position as the largest supplier of shrimp to the United States, but recent tariff changes have inflicted heavy financial burdens. In June, US importers faced $16.4 million in tariffs on 21,603 metric tons of Indian shrimp valued at $166.3 million. This equates to a 10% tariff, aligning with the generalized tariff rate introduced in early April. However, starting August 7, this rate skyrockets to 25%, and will increase to 50% on August 27 due to additional tariffs recently imposed by the Trump administration.

Processing Disruption at Quinlan Brothers

Processing of northern cod was temporarily halted at Quinlan Brothers’ Old Perlican facility in Newfoundland and Labrador due to wildfires affecting the region. This facility is crucial for handling all of Quinlan’s cod processing operations.

Cod and Haddock Supply Shortage

Current market conditions reveal a drastic shortage of cod and haddock raw materials globally. Industry sources indicate that frozen headed and gutted (H&G) cod from Norway is nearly non-existent, while Russian fish prices continue to surge week after week. As a response, Undercurrent has raised its cost, insurance, and freight price assessment for frozen Russian 1-2kg H&G Atlantic cod by an additional $50 per metric ton in week 33.

American Mariculture Exits Bankruptcy Protection

American Mariculture, the leading shrimp breeder and grower in the US, has had its Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection dismissed by the US Bankruptcy Court for the Middle District of Florida. The dismissal on July 15, 2025, came in response to a request from the US trustee, citing the company’s failure to maintain required insurance and nonpayment of quarterly fees.

Leadership Change at The Kingfish Company

In corporate news, Vincent Erenst, CEO of The Kingfish Company, has announced his retirement, effective at the end of 2025. The company’s board of directors is currently in the process of searching for a new CEO to lead the firm into its next chapter.

Troubles for Global Vannamei Shrimp Prices

The global vannamei shrimp farm-gate prices took a hit in week 33, as the disparities caused by US tariffs affected major producing countries. Indian shrimp prices have declined under the looming threat of a potential 50% duty, while countries with lower tariff rates have shown signs of stabilization.

For more insights on last week’s major developments, check out the headlines below.

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