Ocean Trawlers Growth Plans in Russia Draw Scrutiny, as Partner Orlov Plans Expansion
Major Russian fish producer Karat announced plans to expand its reach as the key supplier of cod, Pollock and herring to Russia’s domestic market. The company is a subsidiary of Hong Kong’s Ocean Trawlers and is owned by prominent Russian businessman Vitaly Orlov. However, some Russian seafood operators do not believe Karat’s plans are limited to domestic expansion noting the company’s significant reach in overseas markets including the UK. Producers now plan to petition Russian fishery officials to check on Karat’s activities.
Santander Bank provided a $25 million credit line to The Tuna Store to help it grow its premium private label and branded tuna distribution business. The Tuna Store is a subsidiary of Tri-Marine and headed up by former Starkist Chief Executive Donald Binotto. “Santander’s strong track record of financing seafood companies on an international scale has given our team the utmost confidence in this new relationship,” said Binotto.
In other news the first ever winter season Pacific hake survey found schools of the spawning fish off Coos Bay, Oregon. The survey is designed to learn more about where spawning hake are in the winter and whether they are concentrated in a smaller geographic area; whether the scientists can predict where the fish are based on environmental conditions, whether both sexes are found in the same location; and whether immature fish are found nearby as well.
Meanwhile, one of Vietnam's largest shrimp producers, Stampimex, is the first shrimp operation to earn certification against the Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) group farm program. National Fish & Seafood sponsored Stapimex's application. “We are extremely pleased that the first shrimp farm group has achieved international recognition through BAP certification,” said Jeff Sedacca, president of National Fish & Seafood’s shrimp division.
Finally, LA-based TNG Seafood leased some warehouse space in Port of Grays Harbor so it can pack hagfish and live Dungeness crab for export to the Korean market.
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