Canada and China Reach Deal to Remove Tariffs on Lobster, Snow Crab by March 1, 2026

Canada and China have reached an initial trade agreement that will eliminate tariffs on Canadian lobster, snow crab, and select agri-food products. The agreement, announced January 16, sets a target of March 1 for China to remove retaliatory duties, reinstating market access after a steep 25% tariff hindered Canadian seafood exports.

Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney said the deal would remove trade barriers and “unlock billions of dollars in business for Canadian farmers, fish harvesters, and workers across agri-food sectors...

Gulf Senators Demand Stronger NOAA Action to Stop Illegal Red Snapper Fishing

A group of 10 US senators from Gulf states urged the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to step up enforcement against illegal red snapper fishing by Mexican vessels in US waters.

“We would appreciate NOAA Fisheries’ action in more aggressively applying its existing authorities to ensure that illegally harvested red snapper is not sold in the United States,” the senators wrote to Neil Jacobs, Under Secretary of Commerce for Oceans and Atmosphere and NOAA Administrator.

The letter noted successful Coast Guard interdictions and seizures but said Mexican...

ANALYSIS: Norwegian Atlantic Farmed Salmon Export Growth and Price Trends, 2025–2026

The Norwegian Atlantic farmed salmon industry exported 1,101,187 metric tonnes (mt) in 2025, an increase of 13.8% year-on-year (y-o-y), according to Statistics Norway. The higher supply in 2025 likely contributed to weak market sentiment in the first part of the year...

Nissui to Expand South American Salmon Production to Over 80,000t as Pesquera Yadran Deal Closes

Japanese seafood giant Nissui said it will expand its South American salmon aquaculture business to over 80,000 tons per year by the end of the decade, roughly 2.5 times higher than its current production level.

The bold goal came alongside the company’s announcement that it has completed its acquisition of Chilean salmon farming company Pesquera Yadran (PY), first announced in December of last year, as Expana reported.

The increased Chilean salmon goal aligns with the company’s long-term “GOOD FOODS 2030” vision...

SeaPak Rolls Out Trio of New Frozen Seafood Items Featuring Shrimp, Flounder and Scallops

SeaPak Shrimp & Seafood, a major frozen retail seafood brand, unveiled a trio of new products to kick off 2026.

The company debuted Chili Lime Shrimp, Breaded Flounder Tenders and Breaded Scallops, all expected to hit the shelves at select retailers, including Food Lion, Weis Markets, SpartanNash and BJ's Wholesale Club this month.

SeaPak said the new products meet the demands of shoppers seeking globally inspired tastes, greater variety, and high-quality seafood that is simple and quick to prepare at home...

Russia Eyes Further Live Crab Export Growth to China in 2026

Russia plans to further increase crab exports to China in 2026, with particular focus on live crab supplies, which remain in strong demand among Chinese consumers.

Last year, Russia exported up to 38,500 tons of live crab to China, marking a 10% increase over 2024 and a 20% rise compared to 2023. In value terms, these exports amounted to approximately US$1.1 billion.

These figures are expected to grow further in 2026, as Russian fishermen place high hopes on continued strong demand from China...

SNP Names Gormley, Bedi to Head Seafood Task Force Marketing Committee for National Campaign

The Seafood Nutrition Partnership (SNP) announced  Daryl Gormley, CEO of Aquamar, and Vnay Bedi, Senior Vice President at Cox’s Seafood, as co-chairs of the National Seafood Council Task Force (NSCTF) Marketing Committee.

SNP explained that Gormley and Bedi bring unique perspectives that reflect the full scope of the seafood industry. SNP said its leadership will help ensure the NSCTF is formed around insights from throughout the supply chain and allow it to be responsive to the needs of consumers, retailers, and foodservice partners...

Atlantic Sapphire Reports Lower Q4 Harvest, Average Weight and Price Slip

Land-based salmon farmer Atlantic Sapphire saw its harvest volumes in Q4 2025 dip compared to the previous quarter. The company harvested 1,183 metric tons of gutted weight (HOG), down from 1,426 metric tons in Q3. For the full year, Atlantic Sapphire harvested 5,096mt HOG.

In the final quarter of the year, net biomass gain was 1,683mt live weight (RLW) (Q3: 1,741mt). Standing biomass at the end of the year was roughly 3,437mt (3,215mt RLW).

Average harvest weight in the quarter was 2.9 kg HOG (Q3 2025: 3.1 kg)...

Golden Secures Funding for Maine Lobster Industry, Law Enforcement in House Appropriations Package

Congressman Jared Golden (ME-02) voted today for a package of three appropriations bills — Commerce-Justice-Science; Interior and Environment; and Energy and Water — to fund part of the government through the end of Fiscal Year (FY) 2026. The package, also known as a minibus, includes more than $5.1 million for local projects across Maine’s 2nd Congressional District.

The minibus passed the House in a 397-28 vote...

IFFO Comments on New Research on the Critical Role of Seafood in Global Food Security, Biodiversity

IFFO, The Marine Ingredients Organisation, announces the publication of a new open-access paper led by Duncan Leadbitter (Australian National Centre for Ocean Resources and Security, University of Wollongong) in Reviews in Fisheries Science & Aquaculture. The paper, available here, is the independent outcome of a workshop funded by IFFO, bringing together leading scientists* to explore the impacts of global food production...

ANALYSIS: Revised US Shrimp Import Estimates for Late 2025 Signal Stronger Year-End Supply

Our review of US Customs import manifests, covering roughly 304 million data points across about 13,000 shipments, yielded revised preliminary estimates for October, November, and December shrimp imports. The updated data reveal unexpectedly high volumes in November and preliminary strength in December, resulting in year‑end import totals modestly surpassing previous forecasts.

These revisions help explain the market weakness that began in November, as higher-than-anticipated supply flowing into the system likely exerted downward pressure on spot prices in recent months. Despite significant increases...

Jessica Simpson Reunites With Chicken of the Sea in a Playful Throwback Campaign

"Is this chicken, what I have, or is this fish? I know it’s tuna, but it… it says chicken… by the sea."

The innocence of Jessica Simpson’s question was famously met with a thoroughly perplexed Nick Lachey in the debut episode of Newlyweds more than two decades ago- and television history was made.

Now, in its latest strategic move, Chicken of the Sea is paying homage to that unforgettable pop-culture moment.

Today, the company announced that Jessica Simpson herself will reunite with the...

Caleta Bay Launches “Authentically Raw, for Real Life Cooks” Campaign; Eyes US/Canada Expansion

Chilean steelhead trout producer Caleta Bay has debuted a new campaign, “Authentically raw, for real life cooks,” as it targets expansion in the US and Canada.

The company already has a standing in North America, but it is making a more significant push with the help of Nutrisco. The partnership will open the door for Caleta Bay to deliver its products to chefs and restaurants across the continent.

The campaign is focused on the “real heroes of the kitchen.” It highlights street food carts...

Zaxby's Brings Back Fan Favorites for the New Year

"New year, same saucy cravings" is the catchy motto Zaxby's shared in its latest announcement featuring exciting menu innovations.

The company is reintroducing two of its most iconic creations, back by popular demand for a limited time starting January 19.

First up is Zaxby's Southern Fried Shrimp, returning with flair in three distinct styles:

• ZaxSeas Surf & Turf Meal: Combines land and sea favorites featuring the famous breading on eight Southern Fried Shrimp and three Chicken Fingerz™, served with the legendary Zax Sauce®, Texas...

Baja Aqua Farms Joins NFI Sushi Council, Bringing Pacific Bluefin Expertise

Baja Aqua Farms has become the newest member of the National Fisheries Institute (NFI) Sushi Council.

The company farms Pacific bluefin tuna that is destined for global retail and foodservice customers.

“We are honored to join the NFI Sushi Council and partner with fellow industry leaders who share our commitment to quality, traceability, and responsible seafood production,” said Manuel Vazquez, Chief Executive Officer of Baja Aqua Farms. “Our Pacific bluefin tuna represents the culmination of decades of careful stewardship of ocean resources and innovative aquaculture practices...

In Denying to Hear the Case, the Supreme Court Hands Alaska Natives a Win on the Kuskokwim

The Supreme Court yesterday rejected the state of Alaska’s petition to review a ruling affirming Alaska Native fishing rights in a case tied to a broader legal battle over subsistence fishing that began more than 40 years ago. 

In an article published in Courthouse News, Lloyd Miller, attorney for the Kuskokwim River Inter-Tribal Fish Commission, described the petition as the fourth time a court has ruled against Alaska’s attempt to “wipe out the subsistence fishing and hunting rights that rural Alaskans...

Salmon Evolution Updates Korea RAS Partnership With Dongwon, Drops Investment Commitments

Norwegian land-based salmon farmer Salmon Evolution said its joint venture agreement with major Korean seafood player Dongwon Industries has been replaced with a technical advisory agreement.

Salmon Evolution said the new agreement will see it provide technical advisory services on market terms. The company said this would allow Dongwon to advance the project on its own terms and with full responsibility for project financing.

Here are the highlights of the updated partnership model, per Salmon Evolution:

- Salmon Evolution will provide...

Canadian Farmed Salmon Sector Signals Alarm Over BC Ban Amid Food Security Concerns

The Canadian Aquaculture Industry Alliance’s latest report warns that the 2024 ban on west coast open-net pen salmon farming by the Trudeau government threatens Canada’s food security and jobs, and undermines the “Buy Canadian” push amid tariff uncertainty in the US.

“Canada’s aquaculture production is a national economic treasure, but it has been seriously weakened by irresponsible government policies,” said Timothy Kennedy, CAIA President & CEO. “Once a world leader in seafood, Canada now underperforms against global competitors, jeopardizing Canada’s independence and food security at...

Shadow Crab Market Persists in Russia Despite Crackdown and Legal Reforms

A recent case in the Murmansk region saw local police disrupt an organized group involved in the illegal sale of Kamchatka crabs. According to Irina Volk, spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Internal Affairs, up to 77 live crabs weighing approximately 300 kg were illegally caught in coastal waters of the Barents Sea and intended for unlawful delivery and sale in other parts of Russia.

This incident is one of many involving illegal catches of Kamchatka and other crabs investigated by Russian law enforcement. While past annual volumes of...

NWAA Expands Board Leadership Now, Honored Wally Pereyra With Lifetime Award Last Month

The Northwest Aquaculture Alliance (NWAA) expanded its leadership team last week, after honoring Wally Pereyra, former Board Member, with a lifetime achievement award last month.

The election of new officers and directors from across the Pacific Region and the Americas established Dick Jones, global seafood industry leader, as President and Alaska seafood veteran Jeff Hetrick as Vice President. New Directors include Marcela Paz Delgado, DVM, founder and CEO of Sudvet Corp., and Landen Talbot, Global Sales Manager of Troutlodge, Inc...

Popeyes Announces New Head Chef and Chief Marketing Officer Appointment

Restaurant Brands International was featured in Expana's latest foodservice roundup, highlighting leadership shifts taking shape in 2026.

Just before the new year, the company announced internal promotions for Head Chef positions at two of its flagship brands.

Amy Alarcon has been appointed Head Chef for Burger King, U.S. & Canada, bringing 18 years of industry experience. She will lead Burger King's culinary strategy, including menu innovation, product development, and quality standards across the brand.

Robert (Bobby) O’Brien has been appointed Head Chef for Popeyes...

New Guidelines Spark a Protein-Driven Food Revolution in Foodservice

New dietary guidelines have now been out for a week.

In the update, Americans are encouraged to include protein foods at every meal, focusing on high-quality, nutrient-dense sources. The serving goals outlined in this report are 1.2–1.6 grams (approximately 0.042–0.056 ounces) of protein per kilogram of body weight per day.

"Pretty interesting shift toward protein overall. Under the previous 0.8 g/kg guidelines, intake would have been roughly 69 g/day, while the updated guidance implies about a +34 to...

Governor Glenn Youngkin Announces Planning Grant for the Eastern Shore Hub Opportunity Assessment

Governor Glenn Youngkin today announced a multijurisdictional award of a Governor's Agriculture and Forestry Industries Development (AFID) Fund Planning Grant to Accomack and Northampton counties and the towns of Wachapreague, Parksley, and Onancock to support the development of the Eastern Shore Hub Opportunity Assessment, which includes a feasibility study for a blue catfish processing facility. The $35,000 grant will fund an assessment of sustainable agriculture and agritourism opportunities within an existing 35,000-square-foot facility in Accomack County...

US Court of International Trade Ruling Preserves Countervailing Duties on Vietnamese Shrimp

The US Court of International Trade (CIT) has upheld the Department of Commerce’s final determination imposing countervailing duties on Vietnamese shrimp. The January 8 decision keeps countervailing duty (CVD) rates at 2.84% for most Vietnamese exporters and 221.82% for one company, with importers required to continue depositing those duties alongside current antidumping tariffs.

The court rejected Soc Trang Seafood (STAPIMEX)’s challenge to Commerce’s subsidy finding and methodology, declining to overturn the agency’s judgment. The decision was successfully defended by...

Leadership Shifts Set the Stage in Foodservice for 2026

So far in the new year, we've seen new menus, ad campaigns, partnerships, and emerging trends.

While the industry maintains its focus on consumers, value, and traffic retention, it has ramped up efforts to facilitate growth and expansion.

In this latest foodservice roundup, Expana has assembled a detailed look at the most significant leadership changes shaking up the industry as it welcomes 2026.

Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods announced the upcoming

Hormel Foods

Hormel Foods announced the upcoming retirements of two long-time leaders: Mark Morey, Vice President of Operations for fresh pork, and Paul Peil...

Chilean Salmon Industry Sees 3% Growth YOY in 2025

The Chilean salmon farming sector closed 2025 with a notable 3% growth, achieving US$6,549 million in salmon and trout exports, according to Central Bank data analyzed by SalmonChile.

Arturo Clément, president of SalmonChile, stated, "The 2025 results once again confirm salmon as the undisputed leader of Chile's non-mining exports, reaching 6,549 million dollars."

With salmon farming now representing 6% of Chile's export matrix, it has become a key economic driver, surpassing other non-mining exports such as cherries...

One Year After Genetic Testing Revealed Fraud, More Local Shrimp Are Offered on Menus in Texas

The practice of describing shrimp on restaurant menus as “local” or “American, wild-caught” when in fact, the shrimp is imported and farmed has become less common as a result of genetic testing that verified the seafood’s origin. 

Initial testing in January 2025 of 44 randomly selected restaurants in Galveston, TX, found that only 41% of them accurately stated on their menus that they offered local, wild-caught shrimp. A subsequent test of half of the initial sample group on December 28-30, 2025...

Kroger Announces Executive Leadership Changes, Outlines Vision for 2026

Kroger is making significant changes in its executive team with a series of new appointments.

"We are excited to promote several talented senior executives to key roles that will position Kroger for future success," stated Ron Sargent, Kroger's Chairman and CEO. "Victor Smith, Monica Garnes, Kendra Doyel, and Ken DeLuca are strong leaders with decades of experience, and I look forward to their continued success in their new roles. I also want to thank Colleen Juergensen and Tom Schwilke for their many contributions to our customers, associates, and...

Scott & Jon's Introduce Bold Evolutionary Rebrand

Scott & Jon’s, a growing frozen seafood brand, is taking strategic steps in elevating its brand to reflect increasing consumer demand for higher-protein, premium ingredients, and bold flavors.

The brand describes this rebrand as "an evolution, not a full overhaul," signaling thoughtful refinement rather than a complete redesign.

Scott & Jon’s new visual identity, applied across all packaging and digital platforms, spotlights taste, freshness, and real ingredients.

The updated logo and tagline, "Seafood Expertise, Born in Maine," reinforces the brand’s seafood focus while honoring the founders’ Maine...

The Retail Rundown: Retail Posts Late-Year Gains, but Food Inflation Heats Up

Early 2026 opens with a mixed picture for the food and broader retail sectors.

Retail sales closed out 2025 with solid momentum, as CNBC/NRF data showed holiday sales from Nov. 1 through Dec. 31 rising 4.1% from the year prior. Food and beverage stores also ended the year strong, posting a 0.33% month-over-month gain on a seasonally adjusted basis and a 2.85% increase from a year earlier.

That strength now faces challenges as the industry moves into its usual post-holiday slowdown, amplified by...