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Photo: Stockfile/FIS
Historic Snow Crab Shipment to China
NORWAY
Friday, January 24, 2025, 00:10 (GMT + 9)
For the first time ever, a batch of live snow crabs from Norway has been successfully exported to China.
On the evening of Wednesday, January 22nd, the shipment arrived at Shanghai Pudong International Airport, marking a significant milestone for Norwegian seafood exports. The Norwegian Seafood Council’s envoy to China, Sigmund Bjørgo, highlighted the importance of this achievement:
.png) “This is the first shipment of Norwegian live snow crabs to China since the export was approved last year. It’s an important step in our efforts to bring more high-quality seafood to the Chinese market,” Bjørgo said.
A Proud Supplier
The historic opening of the Chinese market for Norwegian live snow crabs was facilitated by discussions between Norway’s Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, Marianne Sivertsen Næss, and China’s Minister of Customs and Veterinary Authorities, Yu Jianhua, during a meeting in Beijing last November.
 Svein Ruud, CEO of Norway King Crab, expressed his pride in this breakthrough:
“We are incredibly proud to have shipped the very first Norwegian live snow crabs to China. This achievement not only introduces our product to the Chinese market but also provides an excellent opportunity to showcase the premium quality of Norwegian snow crab.”
Opportunities and Challenges
Norway’s shellfish products are renowned worldwide for their high quality, natural sweetness, and exceptional taste. The opening of the Chinese market for live Norwegian snow crab is a highly valuable agreement for the industry.
“For the Norwegian industry, this represents a significant opportunity,” Ruud emphasized. “However, it’s crucial that we equip our fisheries with vessels designed for live capture and take full advantage of this potential.”
Photo: Norwegian Seafood Council
Rising Demand in China
China presents a market with immense potential, and experts predict it could become one of the top three markets for Norwegian shellfish by 2029.
“There is a strong demand for high-quality seafood in China, particularly live seafood,” Bjørgo explained. “We will continue to collaborate with Chinese partners to ensure they have access to the finest Norwegian snow crabs.”
Photo: Norway King Crab
Exceptional Growth and Quality
In 2024, Norway exported 2,823 tonnes of shellfish to China, representing a 182% increase compared to the previous year. The export value grew by 49%, reaching NOK 165 million.
“Norwegian live snow crabs are renowned for their exceptional freshness and high quality,” Ruud noted. “Through sustainable harvesting practices and careful transport, we ensure they arrive in optimal condition, ready to delight consumers.”
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