FMI Shares Insights from 'The Power of Seafood 2026' Report

The Food Industry Association (FMI) unveiled a new report at this year's Seafood Expo North America (SENA), made possible by the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute.

"The Power of Seafood 2026" report highlights that a relatively small, yet highly valuable group of frequent seafood shoppers plays a significant role in sustaining sales in the category.

"Just 10% of shoppers account for 40% of all seafood purchases, making frequent seafood consumers the primary driver of category performance" said Steve Markenson Vice President of Research and Insights...

Cooke Signs MOU to Acquire Sea Bass, Seabream Producer Avramar Greece

Canadian seafood giant Cooke Inc. announced March 19 that it has signed a memorandum of understanding to acquire debt facilities of sea bass and seabream farmer Avramar Greece, alongside an existing agreement to acquire the company's equity.

Upon closing, Cooke will acquire operational control of Avramar Greece, which includes Avramar Aquaculture S.A., Andromeda S.A., Perseus S.A., and Avramar Commercial and Logistics S.A.

The original companies comprising the group were established in 1981 and have grown to become a leader in Mediterranean aquaculture... 

US-Ecuador Reciprocal Trade Agreement Signed; $2.8B in Agricultural Export Benefits

Ecuador and the United States signed their Reciprocal Trade Agreement on March 13, 2026, in Washington, D.C., eliminating tariffs on 53% of Ecuador's non-oil exports worth $2.786 billion in 2025 trade, with the agricultural sector leading the beneficiaries.

Ireland's Salmon, Spiny Lobster Regain US Export Eligibility After MMPA Review

Ireland's farmed salmon and spiny lobster will be eligible for export to the United States after NOAA Fisheries found the country's fisheries meet US standards, according to a March 16 announcement.

The export ban took effect on January 1, 2026, and was first confirmed by Ireland's Department of Agriculture, Food and the Marine (DAFM) and the Sea‑Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) in November 2025, as Expana reported.

The ban was tied to National Marine Fisheries Service (NOAA Fisheries) comparability findings under the US Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA)...

Genuine Alaska Pollock Producers Name Ron Rogness as Interim Executive Director

The Association of Genuine Alaska Pollock Producers (GAPP) recently announced a change its leadership team. The association named its current Director of Industry Relations, Ron Rogness, as its Interim Executive Director.

"We are extremely fortunate to have someone of Ron’s knowledge and experience to assist in the transition to the new CEO " said GAPP Chairman Jim Johnson. "Ron has been an integral member of the GAPP team for the past five years and understands GAPP, the fishery, and industry as well as anyone. GAPP...

Darden Delivers Strong Q3 as Sales Climb 5.9% YOY

Darden Restaurants reported solid growth in its third quarter of fiscal 2026, with total sales rising 5.9% year-over-year (YOY) to $3.3 billion. This increase was driven by a blended same-restaurant sales gain of 4.2% and contributions from 31 net new restaurant openings.

"We delivered a strong quarter," said Darden President & CEO Rick Cardenas. "We continue to outperform the industry same-restaurant sales benchmark, and this quarter we widened that gap as Olive Garden, LongHorn Steakhouse, Yard House, and Cheddar's Scratch Kitchen each significantly...

Senate Hearing Examines ESA Impact on Development and Wildlife Protection

At a Senate Environment and Public Works Subcommittee hearing, Senator Shelley Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and Chairman of the Senate Environment and Public Works Committee, discussed key issues surrounding the implementation of the Endangered Species Act (ESA), particularly its impact on economic development and its effectiveness in protecting wildlife.

“Because, in some cases, the ESA has, at times, been used to unnecessarily slow down progress, particularly in our timbering and our energy industries […] and actually some of our construction on our highways,” Capito said.

She explored whether...

EU Parliament’s Fisheries Committee Calls to Activate Emergency Crises Fund

The chair of the Committee on Fisheries within the European Parliament wants to activate emergency measures to support fishing fleets facing the rapid rise of fuel prices.  

“The current geopolitical context, especially instability in the Middle East and rising oil prices, is having a direct impact on the European fisheries sector,” said Committee chair Carmen Crespo Díaz. “Fuel represents one of the largest operating costs of the fleet, so the continued increase in prices is putting at risk the economic viability of many vessels...

Ministers O'Brien and Dooley Welcome Appointment of New Chief Executive Officer to Inland Fisheries 

Minister for Climate, Energy and the Environment Darragh O'Brien and Minister of State Timmy Dooley today welcomed the appointment of Dr Eamonn Kelly as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Inland Fisheries Ireland (IFI).

The appointment was made in accordance with section 23 of the Inland Fisheries Act, 2010, following an open recruitment process conducted by the Public Appointments Service on behalf of the Board of IFI.

Minister O'Brien said:

"I am pleased to confirm the appointment of Dr Eamonn...

SENA 2026: Vičiūnai Group Targets Major US Retail and Foodservice Growth with Market Entry Push

Vičiūnai Group is leveraging a landmark $100 million salmon processing investment to accelerate its US market expansion at Seafood Expo North America, with production capacity tripling to over 110 million pounds annually as the European processor targets American retail and foodservice growth.

CEO Egidijus Stankus, leading the company's new US subsidiary VG Trading Inc, described the strategic shift from the Lithuanian company's traditional Central and Eastern European focus toward what he called "the biggest seafood market across the world." Building on years of SENA...

SENA 2026: Mowi Unveils Unified Booth Design, Expands Flavor Innovation and Digital Marketing Push

The Aquaculture Stewardship Council is marking its fifth year of North American market investment at Seafood Expo North America, showcasing expanded retail partnerships and consumer recognition that positions the certification program for accelerated growth across US and Canadian markets.

Marketing Manager North America Athena Davis described 2026 as a milestone year, combining ASC's 15th anniversary globally with what she called "really being able to see the results, the fruits of our labor" from sustained North American campaign investments...

The Retail Rundown: Spring Demand Builds as Easter and Grilling Season Approach

Following an extended winter in some areas and disruptive weather in others, sentiment across the food industry is beginning to shift in a more optimistic direction.

As spring approaches, many retailers are counting on a release of pent-up demand, with consumers eager to refresh their routines. The seasonal reset could translate into more frequent dining occasions, while retailers are positioned to benefit from the return of backyard cooking and holiday gatherings.

With Easter now under three weeks away, the calendar itself is acting as a demand catalyst, pulling forward promotional activity and shaping merchandising strategies...

Norwegian Seafood Navigates Changing Tides in the French Market

In recent years, French consumers' shopping habits have shifted dramatically, posing both opportunities and challenges for Norwegian seafood exporters.

The backdrop of political unrest, rising prices, and strained household budgets has impacted the way French people consume fish and other seafood. “That is why we have commissioned a comprehensive report on the French seafood market,” notes Sigrid Louise Philippart, the Norwegian Seafood Council’s Country Director in France.

The report paints a detailed picture of the current trends and future priorities within the French market...

SENA 2026: Boston Day 2 Photo Story Highlights

Day two on the Boston show floor brought deeper conversations with exhibitors showcasing innovation, partnership expansions, and strategic booth redesigns as the seafood industry gathers for its premier trade event.

Pacific Seafood - The company's reimagined booth experience guides visitors through a physical timeline showcasing Pacific's evolution from a single Portland fish market to today's vertically integrated seafood operation. Brand Manager Kady Freeze walks customers through distinct sections—aquaculture, processing, and distribution—emphasizing the company's farm-to-fork capabilities. A centerpiece display features the original storefront photo and authentic signage from their...

SENA 2026: Lineage Sees Surging Demand for Flexible Cold Storage Amid Trade Uncertainty

Lineage Logistics is fielding increased demand for flexible cold storage solutions and bonded warehouse space as seafood companies navigate trade uncertainty and avoid long-term commitments, according to company representatives, including Bridgett Medwid, VP, Regional Sales at SENA 2026.

The cold storage giant is positioning agility and customized solutions as key differentiators as clients shift away from fixed capacity commitments amid ongoing geopolitical and trade disruptions. Lineage officials said seafood companies are specifically requesting flexibility rather than traditional long-term warehouse agreements...

High Liner Foods Unveils Sea Cuisine Skillet Meals at SENA 2026

On Monday, High Liner Foods announced the introduction of its new line of Sea Cuisine Skillet Meals. Attendees at the Seafood Expo North America 2026 were given a first look and taste of the products, with a broader rollout planned for this June.

This latest move enhances High Liner Foods’ premium frozen meal offerings by incorporating responsibly sourced ingredients and a globally inspired menu tailored for busy consumers. These meals are designed to be made in a single pan and ready in just 15...

ASC Launches Updated Label Following Global Consumer Testing

The Aquaculture Stewardship Council (ASC) has announced the rollout of a new on-pack label designed to strengthen consumer understanding of the organization’s sustainability mission.

The updated label follows an extensive development process that included trademark registration in the European Union and 20 additional countries, along with quantitative consumer testing across five global markets. By selecting regions at different stages of sustainability awareness, ASC said it ensured the design would resonate with diverse consumer groups. Testing showed the new label matched the performance of the...

Canadian Fisheries Minister Champions $6.1B Trade Partnership with US Market

Canadian Fisheries Minister Joanne Thompson led a multi-provincial delegation to Seafood Expo North America, emphasizing the strength of North American seafood trade relationships while addressing industry concerns about evolving trade dynamics.

Thompson's delegation included representatives from Atlantic Canada, Quebec, and British Columbia, reflecting the national scope of Canada's seafood export priorities. The minister used the Boston platform to reinforce Canada's commitment to what she called "fair, stable, predictable, and rules-based trade," supporting both Canadian and American coastal communities...

USDA Awards $2M to Invasive Catfish Processors in Maryland, Illinois

The US Department of Agriculture (USDA) announced that seafood processors in Maryland and Illinois will receive $2 million to create improved markets for invasive wild-caught catfish via the Meat and Poultry Processing Expansion Program.

"This investment in the processing of invasive wild-caught catfish not only solves a problem but also adds to the list of ways Secretary Rollins and the USDA are supporting President Trump's America First agenda by investing in economic opportunity and prosperity in rural communities," said USDA Rural Business-Cooperative Programs Administrator JR...

FDA Issues Warning Letter to Feng Foods Trading For HACCP Violations

On Tuesday, March 17, the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued a warning letter to the president of Feng Foods Trading Inc., Heng Wen Lin.

In the letter, signed by Program Division Director of the Division of Northeast Imports, Joseph S. Tomao, the agency informed Lin that an inspection conducted on November 20, 2025, at the company’s seafood import facility in New Hyde Park, NY, revealed serious violations of the seafood Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) regulation, Title 21, Code of Federal...

New Zealand King Salmon Confirms Katie Bennett as Permanent CFO

New Zealand King Salmon Investments Ltd announced on March 18 the permanent appointment of Katie Bennett as Chief Financial Officer, effective immediately.

Bennett has served as interim CFO since November 28, 2025, and was confirmed as the permanent CFO following a comprehensive recruitment process, the company said.

The appointment fills the role vacated by Ben Rodgers, who resigned in August 2025 and departed the company in November. CEO Carl Carrington had praised Rodgers' contribution in advancing the company's organizational and operational capability as the business prepared for "transformational growth...

SENA 2026: Sea Port Products Reflects on 45-Year Journey While Embracing Strategic Reinvention

Sea Port Products Corp is marking its 45th anniversary at Seafood Expo North America with a family leadership team that views the milestone as both validation of past decisions and a launching pad for strategic reinvention in an evolving trade landscape.

President Bill Dresser admitted he has to "pinch myself that it's even real" when reflecting on the company's journey from its 1981 founding by his father, James Dresser. "When you're celebrating, you reflect, and a lot of times you don't do that," he said from...

Day 19 of Iran War: Middle East Supply Fears Boost Oil 6%; US Eases Shipping Rules

The US-Israeli war on Iran is spreading regionally on its 19th day, with missiles and drones targeting Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, and Jordan. Israel bombed central Beirut early Wednesday, killing at least six people and marking an expansion of the US-Israeli war against Iran. Iran carried out further retaliatory attacks on Israel, causing significant damage, and vowed revenge after Israeli strikes killed security chief Ali Larijani and Basij commander Gholamreza Soleimani.

Global markets remain volatile as US diesel prices climbed past $5 per gallon on Wednesday, marking their highest level since 2022. Meanwhile, the national average price for...

SENA 2026: Mowi Unveils Unified Booth Design, Expands Flavor Innovation and Digital Marketing Push

Mowi Consumer Products is using SENA 2026 to debut its most ambitious booth presence yet, combining a unified brand concept with expanded flavor innovation and a comprehensive digital marketing strategy targeting younger salmon consumers.

Diana Dumet, senior director of category and marketing for CP Americas, said the new booth design at #217 reflects the company's evolution from operating separate brand presentations to a cohesive approach. "Before we had this concept where Mowi was on one side, Ducktrap was on another side, and it was...

Norwegian Food Safety Sets a Restricted Zone for ISA North of Trondheim

For the second time in five months, infectious Salmon Anemia (ISA) has been found in several Mowi aquaculture sites in Trøndelag county, about 240 miles north of Oslo. On 17 March 2026, the Norwegian Food Safety Authority adopted regulations on a restricted zone for the control of ISA in aquaculture animals in the municipalities of Nærøysund and Namsos, Trøndelag. 

The tick disease ISA has been detected in fish at the sea locality 31357 Geitryggen (Barenswatch) in Nærøysund municipality, Trøndelag county. The site is operated by Mowi Seawater Norway...  

Lawsuit Targets Aqua Star Over Shrimp Sourcing Claims

Corporate Accountability Lab (CAL) and GMO/Toxin Free USA have filed a consumer protection complaint against Aqua Star, alleging its Seafood Forever™ branding falsely promotes its shrimp as responsibly sourced.

The complaint points to third-party reports linking Aqua Star’s suppliers in India, Indonesia, and Vietnam to systemic issues including labor abuses, environmental damage, and contaminated shrimp products. A 2024 CAL investigation, Hidden Harvest: Human Rights and Environmental Abuses in India’s Shrimp Industry, documented widespread exploitation—particularly involving female workers at supplier Nekkanti Sea Foods...

SENA 2026: Aquamar Debuts New Sushi and Cod Line as “Protein Smackdown” Puts Fish in the Ring

Aquamar is using Seafood Expo North America 2026 to spotlight new sushi innovation and a convenience-focused retail seafood launch, while working to limit downstream disruption from shifting tariffs and broader geopolitical uncertainty, CEO Daryl Gormley told Expana.

At the company’s booth, Aquamar is featuring new California roll flavors, including Thai, Mexican, and curry-inspired profiles. Gormley said the California roll remains a strong platform for product development because it “lends itself so well to innovation,” giving Aquamar an opportunity to introduce new...

SENA 2026: ProChile Showcases $2.9 Billion US Trade Partnership with Expanded Boston Presence

Chile's trade promotion office is leveraging its largest-ever presence at Seafood Expo North America to reinforce the country's position as a cornerstone supplier to the US seafood market, with exports reaching nearly $2.9 billion in 2025.

ProChile Trade Commissioner Andrea Sapag highlighted the country's comprehensive strategy at SENA 2026, where six companies anchor the official pavilion at Booth 715 while approximately 15 Chilean companies exhibit across the show floor—both within and outside the ProChile presence...

Frozen Imported Cod Losing the Japanese Market

According to a report by the Minato Shimbun, the price of frozen imported cod soared last year due to a global decline in catch, drastically reducing Japanese imports. Both US and Russian cod largely disappeared from the domestic market. The unit price for frozen 9/10 counts in 18/19 kg blocks (longline-caught and dressed) from Alaska was "around 1,530 yen/kg ($9.58/kg) if a domestic price were to be assigned," according to a trading company source.

The total annual import volume, including...

SFP and Wholechain Partnership Aims to Boost End-to-End Seafood Traceability

Sustainable Fisheries Partnership (SFP) and Wholechain have signed a memorandum of understanding at Seafood Expo North America, formalizing a collaboration to improve traceability and analytics across the seafood supply chain.

"For our seafood clients, SFP’s Seafood Metrics system gives meaning to the source data they capture in Wholechain," said Wholechain founder Mark Kaplan. "We want to make it as easy as possible for our seafood clients to access this expert risk analysis."

The partnership will combine Wholechain’s standards-based, events-driven traceability platform with SFP’s Seafood...