The Kamchatka Region in Russia’s Far East is exploring opportunities to meet China’s seafood demand following Japan’s seafood import ban, according to Governor Vladimir Solodov. China was previously the largest customer of Japanese seafood, with imports reaching nearly $500 million last year. However, Beijing implemented the ban after Japan discharged treated radioactive wastewater from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean. The move was strongly opposed by China, which labeled the water “nuclear-contaminated” and criticized Tokyo’s actions as “extremely selfish and irresponsible.”
In response to the ban, Kamchatka Region aims to increase its seafood exports to China. Official estimates indicate that Russia exported approximately one million tons of seafood to China in 2022, and the region is now looking to further boost supplies. Solodov highlighted the “very good vacant niches” in the Chinese market left by the departure of Japanese suppliers due to environmental concerns. He expressed the region’s intention to occupy these niches by providing seafood and other products.
While attending the Chinese international seafood exhibition, Solodov emphasized the significant interest shown by Chinese seafood producers and large fishing companies in Russian marine products. Talks are currently underway between the Kamchatka Region and Chinese counterparts regarding future supplies. Solodov mentioned the possibility of signing long-term contracts between Russia and China for seafood deliveries from Kamchatka. In addition, efforts are being made to establish efficient logistics and transportation solutions. Chinese companies have also expressed willingness to supply necessary equipment to Russian fish processing plants and cooperate in ship repair.
The partnership between Russia and China in the seafood industry signifies potential economic opportunities for both countries. As China seeks alternative sources to fulfill its seafood market demand, Russian regions like Kamchatka can benefit from increased exports. Long-term agreements between the two nations could ensure a stable and mutually beneficial trade relationship in the seafood sector.
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