Crustaceans

In 2015, global trade of lobsters declined slightly compared with 2014. Total imports went from 193 300 tonnes in 2014 to 190 000 tonnes in 2015. The largest importer was the USA, with imports increasing. Canada registered a slight decline in imports, while the third largest importer, China, increased its import volume by 3.3%. Other large importers include Italy, France and Spain.

While US imports of lobster increased in 2015, US exports declined by 4.3%. About 55% of US exports go north across the border to Canada, but in 2015 this trade declined by 3.5%. US exports to the EU also declined, by 10%. Exports to China, on the other hand, increased by 5.4%.
EU lobster imports declined very slightly in 2015, from 42 200 tonnes in 2014 to 41 900 tonnes in 2015 (-0.7%). While the USA shipped slightly less to the EU, Canada shipped slightly more.

The EU market for American lobster has been stagnant for some years, with the exception of the UK. While all of the main European countries have shown a decline in imports of American lobster (Homarus spp.), the UK has registered steady growth in imports of this product. The main reason for this development seems to be greater market exposure. Several restaurants and retailers are now offering American lobster in various forms, and consequently, the market has expanded.

Chinese demand for lobster grew in 2014-2015. Though this growth was expected to continue, an increase has not occurred, mainly due to the slowdown in the Chinese economy. This slowdown, coupled with significant increases in supply, have pushed Chinese prices down during the first quarter of 2016. In addition, it is expected that the New England lobster season will be earlier this year due to warmer waters in the region, and that will subsequently put extra pressure on prices.