August 6, 2008

 

UAE 2008 seafood imports to hit US$382 million
   
  

UAE seafood imports for 2008 are expected to reach US$382 million, according to a recent study conducted by the Centre for Marketing Information and Advisory Services for Fishery Products in the Arab Region.

 

The figures reflect a growth trend at par with the expansion of the global seafood industry.

 

Dubai's seafood imports hit 55,050 tonnes at a value of AED 547 million (US$149 million), with the UAE's fish consumption per capita recording more than 50 kg per year, according to Asmak International Fish Farming Company. World average fish consumption is reported to be about 16.5 kg.

 

AK Srikanth, group marketing manager at the Al Kabeer Group of Companies, manufacturer and distributor of frozen food, said the increase is due to population growth, high numbers of tourists and a love for seafood among locals.

 

Srikanth said the seafood industry would continue to play a key role in both imports and exports, and that there is much potential for growth. Srikanth added that with increased imports and exports, the UAE will see much investments going into the processing industry.

 

US$1 = AED 3.673 (August 6, 2008)

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