August 21, 2008

Canadian seafood exports across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region increased 43 percent on-year to CA$7.6 million in 2007, according to data released by the Consulate of Canada in Dubai.

Over 30 percent of Canadian seafood exports to the MENA region find their way to the UAE market, where there is a strong demand for quality seafood products such as scallops, lobster, crab, shrimps, oysters, mussels and salmon. As a result, Canadian seafood producers are drawn to the regional market, with aims to establish their presence and expand market share.

"The growth of the hospitality sector and the rising number of ever-more affluent and demanding tourists are driving growth for innovative foodservice menus featuring high quality and variety when it comes to fish and seafood products. This is recognised as an important market opportunity by an increasing number of Canadian seafood companies," said Rick Seguin, Consul and Trade Commissioner, Canadian Consulate Dubai.