OTTAWA — The Canadian Fisheries Department 2012 trade figures show Canada exported $4.14 billion in fish and seafood products in 2012, with lobster topping the list. That translates to an increase of $41 million from 2011.
“Fish and seafood is one of the largest single food commodities exported by Canada. The strong exports in 2012 demonstrate the trust consumers place in our fish and seafood products worldwide,” said Keith Ashfield, minister of Fisheries and Oceans.
“The sector employs approximately 80,000 Canadians who are involved in commercial fishing, aquaculture and processing activities. We are proud of this industry and will continue to support it.”
Canada exported fish and seafood products to 118 countries last year, with 62 per cent of goods sent to the United States, China and the European Union. Canada’s largest exports by value are lobster, snow/queen crab, Atlantic salmon and shrimp.
The federal government is calling for a trade agreement with the EU that would eliminate tariffs on most fish and seafood products.
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