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Wed. May 27 2026

Webinar Explores Seafood Market Outlook for H2 2026, Price Trends and Sourcing Risks

Conservation Groups Sue to Block Seafood Imports From Eight Countries Over Marine Mammal Bycatch

Brazil Eyes Return to EU Fish Market After Decade-Long Ban

Norwegian Police Recover 18 Tons of Stolen Salmon in Hijacked Semi-Trailer

Hokkaido Okhotsk Scallop Production Projects 220,000 MT, a 15% Down YOY

The Retail Rundown: Retail Focus Shifts Toward Father’s Day Grilling Demand  

Long Island Shellfish Growers Gain Access to Federal Disaster Aid  

Walmart Enhances Supply Chain to Bring Customers What They Need, When They Need It  

Atlantic Sapphire Unveils Restructuring Plan, Sets Stage for Delisting

Shanghai Lab Uses Color Carp to Advance Aquaculture Genetics

Tue. May 26 2026

ANALYSIS: Retail Shrimp Volume Down 12% Year-Over-Year as Prices Reach 12-Year Highs  

Federal Judge Halts Extended Recreational Red Snapper Seasons in Four States  

US Targets Illegal Fishing With Visa Bans to Boost Seafood Industry

Norway's Seafood Industry Splits Over "Production Fish" Export Ban Reversal

Channel Fish Positions Seafood as SNAP Compliance Solution  

The Foodservice Industry Highlights Consumer Trends Leadership Moves and Brand Growth

Putin Visit Reinforces Russia-China Fisheries Partnership Growth Plans

Steakholder Foods To Launch Perfecta Premium Plant-Based Meat in US Later This Year  

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Returns to Profit, Upgrades FY26 Earnings Guidance

Kroger’s Valerie Jabbar Retires After Nearly Four Decades  

Seafoodnews.com Summary Tuesday, May 26

Fri. May 22 2026

ANALYSIS: US Frozen Tuna Supply Tightens as Seasonal Demand Window Nears  

Federal Court Battle Erupts Over South Atlantic Red Snapper Permits  

Red Lobster's Oldest Operating Restaurant to Close After 56 Years

Scottish Salmon Exports to UAE, Gulf States Set for Boost Under New Trade Framework

Nova Scotia's LFA 33 Lobster Harvesters Gain Jonah Crab Bait Access in Policy Shift  

Friendly’s Rolls Out Seafood-Focused Summer Menu, Value Updates to Drive Seasonal Traffic

Premier Dixon and Governor Dunleavy Sign Renewed Alaska-Yukon Intergovernmental Accord  

Mexico Launches Multi-Agency Crackdown on Shrimp Smuggling Operations

Expana Publication Schedule for the Memorial Day Holiday Period

Haaland to Play Viking in Norwegian Seafood-Backed Film "ViQueens"

Seafoodnews.com Summary Friday, May 22

Thu. May 21 2026

Circle Seafoods Sets 2026 Alaska Seine Prices, Holds Pink Base at $0.61  

Hilton Foods Maintains 2026 Outlook Despite Seafood Headwinds

Alaska's Attorney General Voids 5 Board of Fish Regulations on Area M, Due to Ethics Violation  

Seafood Nutrition Partnership Launches Fourth Annual Summer Seafood Challenge

Study Finds Juvenile Fraser River Chinook Exposed to Hundreds of Contaminants  

Canada Launches New Funding Call to Tackle Ghost Fishing Gear

Terra Medi Recalls Smoked Herring Over Botulism Risk

In-Store Grocery Shopping Remains Strong Despite Digital Shift, FMI Report  

Vancouver World Cup Matches to Anchor New BC Investment Initiative

Premier Lantz Announces Senior Staff Changes in Prince Edward Island Government

Kazakhstan Inks $50M Deal for 5,300-tonne Shrimp Farm, Location TBD

Seafoodnews.com Summary Thursday, May 21

Wed. May 20 2026

Bakkafrost Raises Harvest Guidance as Faroe Islands Offset Weak Scotland Results

SalMar Lifts 2026 Harvest Guidance after Strong First Quarter

Icelandic Salmon Reports Near Break-Even Q1 as Operations Strengthen

New Study Shows Capelin is a Sea Canary for Ocean Heatwaves in North Pacific  

Russian Fishermen and Businesses Oppose Possible Export Duties on Fish

Seafoodnews.com Summary Wednesday, May 20

Chile Sets up Ñuble Benthic Fishing Table to Support Artisanal Sector  

The Retail Rundown: Pork Leads Memorial Day 2026 Grilling Promotions  

Whale Entanglement Highlights Pressure on Oregon Dungeness Fishery  

Northern Chile Jack Mackerel Fishery Faces Setback as Catches Fall Below Legal Size

Tue. May 19 2026

SalmonChile Calls for Cross-Sector Unity at Blue Week 2026 as Chile Advances Blue Economy Agenda

Seafoodnews.com Summary Tuesday, May 19

Princes Shifts Sardine Sourcing to MSC-Certified Iberian Fishery  

United Fishermen of Alaska Begins Search for New Executive Director, Welch Named to CFEC

Seafood Industry Pushes Congress to Advance Open Ocean Aquaculture Legislation

Global Coalition Urges Japan to Halt Public Funding for Octopus Farming Research

Pacific Dream Seafoods Plans Major Processing, Cold Storage Expansion in Washington

All-out Effort for 2026 Yukon Chinook and Chum Salmon Reach Spawning Grounds in US and Canada  

ANALYSIS: Supply Pressures Intensify as NOAA's MMPA Decision Impacts Crab Meat Market  

Alaska Legislature Passes Bill Requiring Electronic Monitoring for Trawl Vessels in State Waters

Mon. May 18 2026

Seafoodnews.com Summary Monday, May 18

SADC Ministers to Focus on Food Security, Livestock Disease and Blue Economy at Zimbabwe Summit

Distinguished Programs Opens Marine Cargo Program for Business With Allianz Capacity

Sweden Invests SEK 30 Million to Build Domestic Oyster Industry  

Moxies Rolls Out Limited‑Time Sushi Menu for Summer  

ArcelorMittal Fined Record $100M for Fisheries Act Violations in Quebec

Good News Stories for Endangered Species Day 2026

2026 Economic Value of Alaska’s Seafood Shows Strength of Industry Amid Turbulent Times

Russia’s Salmon Catch Could Fall Up to 30% in 2026, Fisheries Head Says

ANALYSIS: Domestic Scallop Supply Influx Dominated by Smaller Counts Amid Global Shortfalls  

Expana's Weekly Top 10

Fri. May 15 2026

Seafoodnews.com Summary Friday, May 15

Silver Bay Raises Opening Price for Bristol Bay Sockeye Up 23 Percent From 2025  

PEI Targets Oyster Industry Stability with Wage and Debt Relief

Russia Expands Inspector Mobile App for Fisheries Enforcement

ASMFC Defends Menhaden Delay as Debate Over Chesapeake Science Intensifies  

Mowi Posts Second-Best First Quarter as Salmon Demand Climbs

China’s First Mobile Salmon Farm Delivers Commercial Harvest

Middle East Market Intelligence Brief: Week Ending May 15, 2026

Russia Forecasts Record Herring Catch off Sakhalin on Rising Stock Levels

Future Market Insights Projects Plant-Based Fish Market to Reach $3.6 Billion by 2036  

Thu. May 14 2026

Andfjord Salmon: Salmon Crosses Important Weight Thresholds

Seafoodnews.com Summary Thursday, May 14

NOAA Fisheries Finds Gulf of Alaska Chinook Salmon “Not Warranted” for ESA Listing  

Alaska Seafood Gains Expanded QSR Visibility During Lent 2026 Promotions  

US Shrimp Industry Applauds House Passage of the Save Our Shrimpers Act

Congress Presses USTR to Launch Section 301 Investigation Into Unfair Seafood Trade Practices

Nova Austral Opens Facilities to Support Scientific Education and Community Ties

Pokeworks Accelerates Greater Boston Expansion With Multi‑Unit Franchise Growth  

Chilean Salmon Council Joins Industry to Celebrate 50 Years of Salmon Farming May 28

ANALYSIS: US Retail Shrimp Prices Hit Decade Highs Amid Consumer Pullback  

ANALYSIS: Atlantic Cod Prices Surge 26% Year Over Year as Catch Limits Tighten Supply  

Wed. May 13 2026

Ahold Delhaize USA Appoints Vipin Gopal to Lead Data and AI  

Seafoodnews.com Summary Wednesday, May 13

Ecuador’s President Noboa Completes MOU with Morocco to Strengthen Bilateral Trade

Venezuela Adds First ASC-Certified Feed Mills as Aquafeed Program Expands

ASC Deepens Asia Outreach as Producers Prepare for New Farm, Feed Standards

ANALYSIS: March US Mahi Imports Improve, but Supply Remains Historically Tight  

The Retail Rundown: Memorial Day Promotions Heat Up as Shoppers Focus on Value  

Four Seasons Resort Bali at Jimbaran Bay Serves Up a Fresh Culinary Chapter with New Executive Chef

Kodiak’s Early Season Salmon Fishing Curtailed to Protect Expected Low Return of Reds and Kings  

USDA Seeks 192,000 Pounds of Catfish Products for Government Food Programs

Mexico Secures US Shrimp Export Certification Renewal Through Sea Turtle Protection Compliance

Russia Expands Fish Export Geography to Africa, Middle East, Latin America

Tue. May 12 2026

Canada to Invest $957.8 Million Over 5 Years in Small Craft Harbors Program

TGI Fridays Launches Fridays United to Drive Global Soccer Tournament Traffic  

Seafoodnews.com Summary Tuesday, May 12

Amazon Expands 30-Minute Delivery Service to More US Cities  

Japan's POP Imports from the US Plummeted 57% in 2025 amid China's Sharp Import Increase

Bioriginal Names Randy Fournier President and CEO Amid Growth Push

ANALYSIS: Chilean Mussel Sector Adapts to Constrained Supply Environment  

Seafish Appoints Barry Harland as Director of Operations

Shining Sea Fish Co. Recalls Ma Cohen’s Kippered Herring Over Botulism Risk

NOAA Grants Swimming Crab Import Access to Vietnam, Indonesia, Sri Lanka After Court-Ordered Review  

Georgia Becomes Fifth State to Require Shrimp Origin Disclosure in Restaurants

European Tuna Industry Warns Against Indonesian Free Trade Deal Tariff Cuts

Mon. May 11 2026

Aurora and McLane to Launch Driverless Trucking Operations in Texas

Applebee’s Brings Back All You Can Eat Menu Alongside New Don Julio ‘Poolio’ Margaritas

Seafoodnews.com Summary Monday, May 11

Conxemar Takes “Twice as Easy, Twice as Good” Campaign to 50+ Supermarkets Across Spain

Samjin Frozen Fish Cake Recalled Nationwide in Canada Over Undeclared Allergens

The Compression Phase: Alaska Reclaims Strength as Global Crab Markets Diverge  

Sustainable Tuna Becomes Mainstream on UK Supermarket Shelves, MSC Report Finds  

Expana's Weekly Top 10

ANALYSIS: Norwegian Salmon Harvest Down YOY in March as Water Temperatures Rise  

Middle East Conflict Drives Surimi Price Hikes for 93% of Japanese Kamaboko Makers

Russia Eyes Busan as Distribution Hub for Southeast Asian Fish Exports

US Virgin Islands Seeks Federal Support for Aquaculture Development Through Farm Bill Amendment  

Fishing and Farm Groups Voice Concerns Over New USDA Seafood Office Direction

Fri. May 8 2026

Navy Will Commission New USS Ted Stevens Destroyer in Whittier but Homeport in Norfolk  

Mother’s Day Momentum Builds Across Foodservice

Seafoodnews.com Summary Friday, May 8

Alaska Halibut Fisherman Receives Fishing Ban, $15,000 Fine for Lacey Act Violations  

83% of Fast-Food Chains Are Invisible to AI Restaurant Recommendations, Uberall Finds

Fishmeal Output Slides in Early 2026 as China Demand Signals Soften

Premium Brands Holdings Posts Record Q1 Results Despite Clearwater Seafoods Challenges

Middle East Market Intelligence Brief: Week Ending May 8, 2026  

Alaska 2026 Salmon Season Officially Gets Underway This Month at Copper River!  

Conservation Groups Sue Trump Administration Over Northeast Canyons Monument Fishing Access

FDA Issues Warning Letters to Three California Seafood Processors Over HACCP Violations

Scottish Salmon Survival Rates Hit Record High in Q1 2026

North Pacific Fisheries Commission Addresses IUU, Bottom Fishing Among Regional Issues Last Month

Thu. May 7 2026

Seafoodnews.com Summary Thursday, May 7

USDA Requires SNAP Authorized Retailers to Carry More Real Food  

ANALYSIS: US Shrimp Imports Drop 19% in March as Product Mix and Origin Shifts Reshape Market  

Nueva Pescanova Raises €283M to Fund Growth as 2025 Profits Jump

Ocinet Recalls “…And Kimchi” Sliced Kimchi Over Undeclared Fish Allergen

Genova Premium Tuna Launches Mediterranean Tuna Bowls  

Cousins Maine Lobster Debuts Fried Seafood Concept

Strong Kroner, Middle East War, US Tariffs Hit Norway's Seafood Exports in April

NFI Urges USTR to Exempt Seafood from Section 301 Tariffs in Excess Capacity Investigation

Thai Union Feed Mill Credits Their Shrimp Feed Business for Impressive Q1 2026 Report

Wed. May 6 2026

Seafoodnews.com Summary Wednesday, May 6

USDA Solicits Bids for Major 2.3 Million-Pound Alaska Pollock Purchase

New NOAA Mapping Tool Tracks Shifts in West Coast Fisheries

EU, Mediterranean Nations Back New 2027 Pact to Rebuild Fish Stocks

Summer in the Cities Buyers Mission Returns in August Across Three US Markets

The Retail Rundown: May Ignites Grocery’s Biggest Early-Season Rush  

Ace Aquatec Names Gonzalo Boehmwald Trigo General Manager for Latin America

Pacific Hybreed Secures $1M to Scale Shellfish Seed Production  

FDA Removes Ecuadorian Shrimp Producer SONGA from Red List

Royal Greenland Returns to Profit After Divesting Chile, Norway Operations

Thai Union Posts 7.6% Q1 Sales Growth to $983M Despite US Tariff, FX Headwinds

Alaska Rep. Begich Offers Bill to Add Four Seats to North Pacific Fishery Management Council  

Tue. May 5 2026

Saladworks Adds Warm Roasted Chicken and Fire-Grilled Steak to Create Your Own Lineup  

FSIS Issues Health Alert for Misbranded Giovanni Rana Ravioli Over Undeclared Shellfish Allergens

FFAW Welcomes Canada’s Renewed Investment in Small Craft Harbours

Mexico Sets Shrimp Fishing Closures in Gulf and Caribbean Starting in May

Seafoodnews.com Summary Tuesday, May 5

FDA Warns Against Eating La Serranita Blood Clams From Ecuador Over Hepatitis A Risk

NOAA Fisheries Opens Up to $99 Million for Pacific Salmon Recovery Projects  

Atlantic Menhaden Fishery Receives MSC Recertification  

Chicken of the Sea Achieves Full MSC Certification Across Retail Tuna Portfolio  

Hokkaido's Herring Production in the Sea of ​​Japan Shows Clear Decline

Trump White House Supports Delaying Right Whale Regulations for Maine Lobster Fishery Until 2035

House Hearing Spotlights Safer Shrimp Imports Act Amid Food Safety Push

Mon. May 4 2026

Create a Celebration as Unique as Mom  

Seafoodnews.com Summary Monday, May 4

Profand Completes Strategic Acquisition of Unión Martín

Japan's Tuna and Skipjack Fishery Organizations Request Measures to Address Rising Fuel Prices  

NAIA Names Bradley George Executive Director

EU Review says Fisheries Policy Improved Management but Fell Short on Sustainability  

Peru's Anchovy Season Faces Quota Fulfillment Risk as Juvenile Catches Disrupt Operations

StarKist Joins Feed the Children to Help Put Child Hunger to Bed

Expana's Weekly Top 10

Commerce Sets Preliminary Antidumping Margins for Indian Shrimp at 2.36-4.30%

Russia May Face Sharp Drop in Black Sea, Azov Basin Fish Catch Due to Infrastructure Attacks

COSFF Taps Drew Watts as Foodservice VP, Expands National Broker Network

BC Coastal First Nations Tell Ottawa to Reverse Trudeau-era Net Salmon Pen Ban  

Navigating the Trump Tariff Turbulence: A Comprehensive Timeline

Fri. May 1 2026

Special BOF Meeting Addresses Gear Switch in Cook Inlet, Traditional Knowledge Reg Language

Seafoodnews.com Summary Friday, May 1

Cousins Maine Lobster Launches Statewide Food Truck Tour in New Mexico

Federal Bill Targets Tire Chemical Linked to the Population Decline of Coho Salmon in Pacific NW

US House Approves Farm Bill Amendments Expanding USDA Role in Seafood Sector

Court Rejects Conagra Bid to Dismiss Seafood Mislabeling Lawsuit

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Conservation Groups Sue to Block Seafood Imports From Eight Countries Over Marine Mammal Bycatch

Conservation groups filed suit against the National Marine Fisheries Service in the US Court of International Trade seeking to halt seafood imports from eight countries they claim fail to meet US marine mammal protection standards.

The lawsuit targets imports from Argentina, Ecuador, India, Norway, Taiwan, Tunisia, the United Kingdom, and Vanuatu, alleging that their commercial fisheries kill unsustainable numbers of marine mammals as bycatch and use gear including gillnets, longlines, and trawls.

Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the US must ban seafood imports from countries...

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Webinar Explores Seafood Market Outlook for H2 2026, Price Trends and Sourcing Risks

Seafood markets are entering H2 2026 under real pressure.

How will shifting trade flows, disease outbreaks, evolving consumer demand, and shipping volatility shape seafood procurement and pricing in the coming months?
In just 30 minutes on May 28, Expana's seafood experts Angel Rubio and Janice Schreiber will walk you through the latest price movements, supply dynamics and sourcing risks potentially impacting your supply chains in H2 2026.

● Shrimp: Where farmed output from Ecuador, India, Vietnam are heading, antidumping duties updates - and the impact on US and EU prices.
● Salmon: Supply vs. demand for Norwegian and Chilean Atlantic salmon, impact of sea lice...

Full Story »

Conservation Groups Sue to Block Seafood Imports From Eight Countries Over Marine Mammal Bycatch

Conservation groups filed suit against the National Marine Fisheries Service in the US Court of International Trade seeking to halt seafood imports from eight countries they claim fail to meet US marine mammal protection standards.

The lawsuit targets imports from Argentina, Ecuador, India, Norway, Taiwan, Tunisia, the United Kingdom, and Vanuatu, alleging that their commercial fisheries kill unsustainable numbers of marine mammals as bycatch and use gear including gillnets, longlines, and trawls.

Under the Marine Mammal Protection Act, the US must ban seafood imports from countries...

Full Story »

Brazil Eyes Return to EU Fish Market After Decade-Long Ban

Brazil’s fishing industry is preparing for a crucial European Union audit next month that could reopen the European market to Brazilian fish exports after nearly 10 years.

The issue was the focus of the 27th Ordinary Meeting of the Sectorial Chamber of Fish Production and Industry (CSPES), held Monday at the Ministry of Agriculture and Livestock (MAPA) in Brasília.

The EU mission, scheduled for June 8–19, will include inspections of industrial fishing vessels in Rio Grande do Norte and Santa Catarina. Industry and...

Full Story »

Norwegian Police Recover 18 Tons of Stolen Salmon in Hijacked Semi-Trailer

Norwegian police recovered 18 tons of stolen salmon Sunday after an observant citizen spotted the hijacked semi-trailer used to transport the fish at a Circle K gas station in Vestby, according to Nettavisen.

The salmon was stolen from the seafood company 1814Salmon in Dal early Saturday morning, with police receiving the burglary report at 8:30 a.m. Sunday. Hours later, authorities received a separate report about two stolen semi-trailers taken from Skarnes the night before.

The breakthrough came when the victim of the trailer theft posted...

Full Story »

The Retail Rundown: Retail Focus Shifts Toward Father’s Day Grilling Demand

Cold and wet weather across several regions of the country dampened Memorial Day grilling plans, likely creating a softer-than-anticipated kickoff to the unofficial start of the summer grilling season.

Attention is now quickly turning toward the next major grilling occasions of the summer—Father’s Day and the Fourth of July holiday period. These seasonal events historically begin to influence demand patterns for grilling staples such as bellies, loins, ribs, and steaks. 

Following Memorial Day, protein promotions have shifted more heavily toward seafood, which now accounts...

Full Story »

Walmart Enhances Supply Chain to Bring Customers What They Need, When They Need It

Continuing its commitment of Everyday Low Prices (EDLP) for customers, Walmart today announced a new supply chain strategy, Prepaid Consolidation. This program helps get products to shelves and customers faster by simplifying inbound supplier logistics and building a more connected, scalable, tech-enabled supply chain that improves service and lowers costs.

The program expands Walmart’s first mile capabilities for prepaid suppliers by using its national supply chain network to create a scalable way to merge shipments, creating greater transportation efficiency. Suppliers send products under a single...

Full Story »

ANALYSIS: Retail Shrimp Volume Down 12% Year-Over-Year as Prices Reach 12-Year Highs

Current retail shrimp market data reveal a significant shift in consumer purchasing patterns: volume is down 12% year-over-year, while prices have reached levels not seen since 2012. Dollar sales have remained relatively stable at 0.8% growth, indicating that price increases have largely offset volume declines in aggregate revenue terms.

Volume and pricing dynamics

The 12% volume decline reflects reduced shrimp imports into the US market, influenced by elevated costs throughout the supply chain. Despite the volume contraction, retail dollar performance shows minimal change...

Full Story »

US Targets Illegal Fishing With Visa Bans to Boost Seafood Industry

The US State Department has taken its first enforcement action under a new, tougher approach to combating illegal fishing, moving to restrict visas for dozens of individuals linked to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

On March 20, Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau announced that the US would impose visa restrictions on 26 foreign nationals accused of being responsible for, complicit in, or benefiting from illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and related activities. The action follows President Donald Trump’s 2025 executive order...

 

Full Story »

Channel Fish Positions Seafood as SNAP Compliance Solution

Channel Fish Processing is targeting SNAP-authorized retailers with a strategic pitch: value-added seafood can help meet the USDA's expanded "real food" requirements while driving profitability. Starting fall 2026, SNAP retailers must stock at least seven varieties across four staple categories—more than double current requirements—with snacks no longer counting toward compliance.

The processor argues seafood fits perfectly into the protein staple category while offering advantages over fresh meat: extended shelf life through freezing, reduced labor complexity, and broad SNAP eligibility for cold, frozen, or packaged products...

Full Story »

Putin Visit Reinforces Russia-China Fisheries Partnership Growth Plans

Russia plans a significant expansion of its fisheries trade with China as demand for Russian fish among Chinese consumers continues to grow steadily.

The expansion of joint fisheries trade was discussed during Putin's recent visit to China. Both countries believe they have significant potential to expand mutual fisheries trade. Current trade dynamics remain positive, and most analysts expect continued improvement in the second half of this year.

According to the latest trade statistics from the Russian Fish Union, fish and seafood trade between Russia and China...

Full Story »

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Returns to Profit, Upgrades FY26 Earnings Guidance

New Zealand King Salmon Investments swung back to profit in the first half of FY26, helped by stronger fish performance, higher sales volumes and improved operational efficiency.

The salmon producer posted net profit of $13.8 million for the six months ended March 31, reversing a $20.8 million loss reported in the prior comparable period. Revenue rose to $100.3 million from $94.5 million, while sales volumes increased to 2,799 metric tonnes from 2,624 metric tonnes.

Pro-forma EBITDA...

Full Story »

Federal Court Battle Erupts Over South Atlantic Red Snapper Permits

A federal lawsuit filed in Washington, D.C., has sparked a high-stakes legal battle over exempted fishing permits that dramatically extend recreational red snapper seasons in the South Atlantic, pitting commercial fishing interests against state fisheries agencies and NMFS.

Commercial fishing groups led by the Southeastern Fisheries Association filed suit May 5 against Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick and NMFS, seeking to block exempted fishing permits (EFPs) issued May 1 that allow Florida a 39-day recreational red snapper season starting May 22, and Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina...

Full Story »

Scottish Salmon Exports to UAE, Gulf States Set for Boost Under New Trade Framework

Scottish salmon exports are expected to jump after the United Kingdom and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) inked a trade deal on May 20.

Salmon Scotland, which describes itself as the voice of Scotland's farmed salmon industry, said the deal will ensure tariff-free access for UK goods to the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Oman, Qatar, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and Bahrain, removing 5% tariffs on certain salmon exports.

Last year, salmon exports to the aforementioned countries reached 670 metric tons worth £6.5 million...

Full Story »

Friendly’s Rolls Out Summer Menus, Expanded Drinks and Value Updates to Drive Seasonal Traffic

Friendly’s is rolling out a slate of seasonal menu updates and value-focused offerings designed to drive traffic as summer begins, combining limited-time items, expanded beverages and refreshed in-store value options.

“At Friendly’s, summer is all about families and friends coming together to enjoy a mix of tradition and something new, whether that’s a lobster roll, a fun drink or a simple meal that fits the day,” said Dawn Petite, president of Friendly’s Restaurants. “This menu brings...

Full Story »

Mexico Launches Multi-Agency Crackdown on Shrimp Smuggling Operations

Mexico's National Aquaculture and Fisheries Commission (Conapesca) coordinated sweeping anti-smuggling operations across seven states this week, targeting illegal shrimp imports.

The May 18 operations involved joint inspections with customs agency AGACE, health regulator COFEPRIS, the National Guard, and food safety agency Senasica at 15 strategic locations spanning major commercial hubs from Tijuana to Tapachula. Inspectors verified documentation, sanitary compliance, legal origin, and regulatory adherence for shrimp imports and derivatives.

Notably, Conapesca specifically cited protecting domestic producers from "irregular entry of products from non-market economies" – trade terminology...

Full Story »

Haaland to Play Viking in Norwegian Seafood-Backed Film "ViQueens"

Manchester City striker Erling Haaland will expand his role as Norwegian seafood ambassador into Hollywood, appearing as a Viking in the upcoming film "ViQueens" scheduled for a December 2026 release.

The Norwegian Seafood Council announced May 18 that Haaland will take on the role of a "legendary Viking known as 'Haaland'" in director Harald Zwart's film, which follows two Viking girls on an adventure highlighting seafood's importance to Viking-era global trade.

The seafood marketing tie-in represents an extension of Haaland's ambassador partnership with the Norwegian Seafood Council...

Full Story »

Hilton Foods Maintains 2026 Outlook Despite Seafood Headwinds

Hilton Food Group reported solid trading performance in its core meat and fresh prepared food businesses while Hilton Food Group reported solid trading performance in its core meat and fresh prepared food businesses while acknowledging continued challenges in its seafood, vegetarian, and vegan divisions ahead of its AGM today, extending struggles that prompted a strategic review earlier this year.

The UK-based food processor maintained its 2026 adjusted profit before tax guidance of £60-65 million despite ongoing pressures in its seafood operations, which became "marginally loss-making...

Full Story »

Hokkaido Okhotsk Scallop Production Projects 220,000 MT, a 15% Down YOY

In the Okhotsk region of Hokkaido, full-scale scallop fishing operations began in mid-May at some fishing cooperatives in the northern area. The scallop catch plan for fiscal year 2026 (April 2026 to March 2027), including fishing ground development and farmed scallops, is projected to decrease in both the northern (Soya-Esashi) and southern (Omu-Utoro) areas, falling 15% further from the previous year's figure of 220,250 tons—the first time in seven years that the catch has fallen below 300,000 tons. However, signs of improved scallop growth...

Full Story »

Long Island Shellfish Growers Gain Access to Federal Disaster Aid

New York oyster growers battered by this winter’s severe weather will now have access to federal disaster assistance after the US Department of Agriculture approved a Secretarial Disaster Designation for Suffolk County.

Governor Kathy Hochul announced the designation Tuesday, making aquaculture operations in Suffolk and neighboring Nassau County eligible for low-interest emergency loans through the USDA’s Farm Service Agency.

The designation follows heavy snowfall, prolonged freezing temperatures and widespread ice formation in February that prevented shellfish growers from accessing harvesting areas and damaged...

Full Story »

Atlantic Sapphire Unveils Restructuring Plan, Sets Stage for Delisting

Atlantic Sapphire ASA has unveiled a sweeping restructuring plan designed to stabilize its finances, secure fresh liquidity, and reshape the company’s ownership after months of mounting financial pressure.

The land-based salmon farming company said it has entered into a restructuring agreement with a group of major shareholders and convertible loan holders representing about 63% of its shares and 93% of its outstanding convertible debt. The investor group includes Condire Management L.P., Nordlaks Holding AS, Nokomis Capital, Strawberry Capital AS, and Joh. Johannsson...

Full Story »

Federal Judge Halts Extended Recreational Red Snapper Seasons in Four States

A federal judge granted a preliminary injunction on May 21, halting extended recreational red snapper fishing seasons across four South Atlantic states after finding NOAA Fisheries acted "arbitrarily and capriciously" in approving permits that could allow catches up to 20 times the annual recreational limit.

US District Court Judge Rudolph Contreras ruled that the National Marine Fisheries Service failed to address public comments warning of potential overfishing and violated its own regulations by approving incomplete exempted fishing permit applications...

Full Story »

Norway's Seafood Industry Splits Over "Production Fish" Export Ban Reversal

Norway's seafood sector faces a deepening divide after Sjømat Norge, the Norwegian Seafood Federation, announced it would support lifting the country's longstanding ban on exporting uncorrected "production fish" to increase its market access in the European Union.

The industry group informed members of the decision in an internal email on May 15, according to Dagens Næringsliv. Production fish refers to farmed salmon with wounds, injuries, or other defects that currently must be corrected through filleting before export under regulations dating to the early 1990s...

Full Story »

The Foodservice Industry Highlights Consumer Trends Leadership Moves and Brand Growth

From anxious drive-thru decisions and nostalgic dining room makeovers to executive shakeups and autonomous food deliveries, the restaurant industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace. This week’s roundup highlights the trends, leadership moves and consumer insights shaping the future of foodservice as brands look to balance innovation, convenience and value in an increasingly competitive market. 

Explore more from Expana’s biweekly foodservice roundups here. 

Consumer Insights & Research

A Global Payments’ survey of 2,000 US QSR customers uncovers widespread “order anxiety” that’s likely costing...

Full Story »

Steakholder Foods To Launch Perfecta Premium Plant-Based Meat in US Later This Year

Steakholder Foods Ltd. (Nasdaq: STKH), a supplier of whole cuts of plant-based meat using 3D-printing technology, announced plans to launch Perfecta™ Premium Plant-Based Meat in the US market in the second half of 2026.  

The campaign will use the slogan “Plant-Based Meat, Perfected!” and position the products as next-generation plant-based protein options, including Marbled Steak, Filet Mignon, Salmon Patties, Chicken Breasts, and White Fish Patties. 

In a statement announcing the campaign...

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ANALYSIS: US Frozen Tuna Supply Tightens as Seasonal Demand Window Nears

The frozen tuna market appears to be entering a firmer phase as tightening supply begins to intersect with the seasonal demand window. Year-to-date imports through March were down 14.4%, marking the eighth consecutive monthly decline from the prior year. The pullback has been led in part by two key suppliers, with Vietnam down 19.1% and Indonesia down 14.4%, reinforcing the view that supply is becoming less comfortable as the market moves toward its stronger summer period. At the same time, market participants report tightening current availability...

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Red Lobster's Oldest Operating Restaurant to Close After 56 Years

Red Lobster will shutter its oldest continuously operating location on May 24, marking the end of a 54-year run for the Tallahassee, Florida, restaurant that opened in 1970.

The Tallahassee Democrat confirmed the closure on May 18 after speaking with the restaurant's manager and employees. Red Lobster verified the decision to ABC News the following day.

"This restaurant holds a special place in Red Lobster's history and has been a meaningful part of the community for decades," the company said in a statement...

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Nova Scotia's LFA 33 Lobster Harvesters Gain Jonah Crab Bait Access in Policy Shift

Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO) announced May 21 that lobster harvesters in Lobster Fishing Area (LFA) 33 can now retain Jonah crab bycatch for use as bait, addressing climate-driven bait supply concerns in one of Canada's most valuable lobstering regions.

Minister Joanne Thompson said the decision allows LFA 33 harvesters to keep Jonah crab caught incidentally in lobster traps, bringing them in line with practices already permitted in neighboring Areas 34-38. Previously, retention was prohibited due to the area's directed Jonah crab fishery...

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Premier Dixon and Governor Dunleavy Sign Renewed Alaska-Yukon Intergovernmental Accord

Alaska and the Yukon reaffirmed their commitment to several shared issues, including deeper collaboration on research and the ongoing rebuilding of salmon populations in the Yukon River.  

Premier Currie Dixon and Alaska Governor Mike Dunleavy met during the fifth annual Alaska Sustainable Energy Conference, where they discussed shared northern energy priorities and the Arctic’s growing strategic importance.

Both Dixon and Dunleavy emphasized the close, longstanding relationship between Alaska and the Yukon, including cross-border family and friendship connections, ties among Indigenous communities and a shared commitment to...

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Expana Publication Schedule for the Memorial Day Holiday Period

Expana will be observing the Memorial Day holiday on Monday, May 25, across its Americas offices, which will impact the publication dates of several Expana Benchmark Prices. The closure will also impact news publications across all platforms.

The European and APAC offices’ publication schedules will be unaffected by this holiday.

The Memorial Day holiday period will affect the following markets:

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Circle Seafoods Sets 2026 Alaska Seine Prices, Holds Pink Base at $0.61

Circle Seafoods announced its 2026 Southeast Alaska seine season base prices, setting pink salmon at $0.61 per pound, chum at $1.07 per pound, and sockeye at $2.50 per pound, with payments processed within weeks rather than months.

The company is maintaining its 2025 final pink price of $0.61 as the 2026 base, citing retail demand built through its Ultra Low Temp Pink Salmon Fillets, now available in 4,000 US stores, including Publix, Whole Foods, H-E-B, and Sprouts Farmers Market...

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