Summary

• Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food, joining B.C. seafood businesses at Seafood Expo North America to make new global partnerships and help promote and grow the sector
• B.C. seafood exports are $1.3 billion annually to international markets
• The Seafood expo represents an important opportunity to diversify trade interests and expand B.C. sales and export markets

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Nineteen B.C. seafood businesses and industry associations will join Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food, at the 2026 Seafood Expo North America to help showcase B.C. seafood to an international audience and increase export opportunities.

“B.C.’s seafood is recognized globally for its quality, sustainability and innovation,” Popham said. “Participating at one of the world’s largest seafood trade events allows B.C. producers to shine on an international stage, creates new relationships and strengthens the province’s competitiveness in global markets.”

The three‑day expo in Boston attracts thousands of buyers and suppliers from around the world, making it a strategic opportunity to expand B.C.’s exports, which total $1.3 billion annually.

B.C. seafood will be represented by local businesses such as French Creek Seafood of Parksville at the B.C. Pavilion. French Creek Seafood exports fresh, sustainable salmon, spot prawns, halibut, cod and shrimp to international markets.

“Seafood Expo North America is one of the most important events of the year for us, putting French Creek Seafood in front of buyers we may not reach otherwise and helping us strengthen relationships that keep our business moving forward,” said Brad Mclean, owner, French Creek Seafood. “For B.C. seafood companies, the show is an important opportunity to showcase our quality products, secure new markets and ensure we stay competitive in a rapidly evolving global industry.”

Supporting competitiveness of B.C.’s seafood sector

With an array of products, including wild and farmed salmon, halibut, shellfish, geoducks, crab and spot prawns, B.C.’s seafood sector is a cornerstone of the province’s food economy. Participation in major international trade events like the Seafood Expo North America helps B.C. businesses:

• reach new buyers and distributors
• expand into additional global markets
• strengthen brand recognition for B.C. seafood
• build partnerships throughout the seafood supply chain
• highlight the province’s leadership in sustainable production

“Seafood Expo North America is a key global event for the seafood industry, providing a valuable opportunity for B.C. harvesters, processors, and industry associations to connect with buyers and showcase the premium quality and sustainability of B.C. seafood,” said Katie Lindsay, marketing manager, Underwater Harvesters Association. “As the sector navigates ongoing trade and tariff challenges, events like this are more important than ever. We’re thrilled Minister Popham will attend to advocate for our hardworking fishing families and highlight the strength and importance of B.C.’s seafood sector.”

Promoting B.C.’s world-class seafood

The Province will also host a B.C. seafood reception, creating an exclusive setting for international buyers, distributors and partners to meet B.C. seafood companies, taste local products and explore new business opportunities.

B.C. chefs will host a live promotional cooking demonstration, highlighting the flavour, versatility and quality of seafood products harvested and produced in the province.

“It is a privilege to represent British Columbia as part of the team of B.C. businesses and associations showcasing what our province has to offer the world,” said Robert Clark, chef, Aramé Culinary. “Seafood producers play a vital role in communities across British Columbia, both economically and culturally. I’m grateful for the opportunity to use my experience and specialized knowledge to help support their efforts and strengthen our presence in global markets.”

Supporting industry connections

Throughout the expo, the minister will meet with federal and provincial counterparts as well as key industry associations to discuss competitiveness, market access, sustainability leadership and future growth opportunities for B.C. seafood producers.

Quick Facts:

• B.C. is home to more than 100 types of seafood species and produces a diverse range of close to 200 seafood products for export to international markets.
• Seafood is a major B.C. export worth more than $1.3 billion annually, including $809 million to the U.S.
• China and Japan are the second- and third-largest export markets for B.C. seafood.
• Seafood Expo North America is recognized as North America’s largest seafood trade event, bringing together global suppliers, processors, buyers and food-service leaders.

Learn More:

• Seafood Expo North America runs March 15-17, 2026, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center: https://www.seafoodexpo.com
• Building B.C.'s economy stronger, together: https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/employment-business/strong-economy
• Look West: Jobs and Prosperity for a Stronger BC and Canada strategy: https://gov.bc.ca/LookWest