Seafood Industry Year in Review Released

Fisheries and Aquaculture
March 7, 2014

A Strong Fishing and Aquaculture Sector Supports a Vibrant Economy

Newfoundland and Labrador’s fishing and aquaculture industries performed very well in 2013, as confirmed by statistics and information provided in the Seafood Industry Year in Review released today by the Provincial Government.

“Our province continued its reputation as a strong competitor in global seafood markets in 2013, as Newfoundland and Labrador seafood was exported to more than 40 countries. The total value of provincial seafood production in 2013 increased by eight per cent from the previous year to approximately $1.1 billion, and the stage is set to build on that success thanks to gains achieved through CETA negotiations, as well as this government’s ongoing investments in research and development, science, marketing, and quality control.”
– The Honourable Keith Hutchings, Minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture

The increase in production value was due in part to the record production value of the aquaculture industry, which generated $197 million last year. Landings in the commercial wild fishery increased in 2013; however, a decline in the average market prices for several species caused the production value of commercial fishing activity to be relatively on par with the previous year. This economic activity generated employment for more than 18,000 workers province-wide. The Seafood Industry Year in Review can be reviewed online by visiting www.fishaq.gov.nl.ca/ and clicking the appropriate link in the Features section.

Through sound fiscal management and responsible decisions, the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is strengthening the business environment, encouraging the development of innovative industries, and building a vibrant economy.

QUICK FACTS

• The Seafood Industry Year in Review for 2013, which details key statistics regarding the provincial fishery, was released by the Provincial Government today.
• Commercial fishery landings in 2013 increased by 4.9 per cent when compared to 2012 landings, totalling 268,646 tonnes, which generated a production value of approximately $900 million.
• The total production value of the provincial aquaculture industry in 2013 grew to $197 million, a 74.3 per cent increase when compared to 2012, with salmon production growing significantly, and shellfish production remaining near the record level achieved the previous year.
• The landed value of seal products in 2013 was $2.7 million, compared to $1.5 million in 2012 − a 75.7 per cent increase.

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Media contact:

Jason Card
Director of Communications
Department of Fisheries and Aquaculture
709-729-3733, 699-0470
jasoncard@gov.nl.ca

2014 03 07

NT3