Vancouver/CMEDIA: B.C. Seafood Expo North America reportedly runs March 15-17, 2026, at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center.
Seafood reortedly is a major export of British Columbia (B.C.) worth more than $1.3 billion annually, including $809 million to the U.S.
Lana Popham, (B.C.)’s Minister of Agriculture and Food would reportedly be joined by nineteen B.C. seafood businesses and industry associations at the 2026 Seafood Expo North America to help showcase B.C. seafood to an international audience and increase export opportunities.
Being home to more than 100 types of seafood species, B.C. produces a diverse range of close to 200 seafood products for export to international markets.
“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.”
Recognized as North America’s largest seafood trade event, Seafood Expo North America is bringing together global suppliers, processors, buyers and food-service leaders
Attracting thousands of buyers and suppliers from around the world, the three‑day expo in Boston aims to make it a strategic opportunity to expand B.C.’s exports, which total $1.3 billion annually.
Represented by local businesses such as French Creek Seafood of Parksville at the B.C. Pavilion, B.C. 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
B.C.’s seafood sector is a cornerstone of the province’s food economy with an array of products, including wild and farmed salmon, halibut, shellfish, geoducks, crab and spot prawns.
B.C. businesses are helped by the participation in major international trade events like the Seafood Expo North America:
- 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
Also hosting a B.C. seafood reception, the Province will be creating an exclusive setting for international buyers, distributors and partners to meet B.C. seafood companies, taste local products and explore new business opportunities.
A live promotional cooking demonstration would be hosted by the B.C. chefs highlighting the flavour, versatility and quality of seafood products harvested and produced in the province.
China and Japan are the second- and third-largest export markets for B.C. seafood.
“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
While meeting with federal and provincial counterparts throughout the expo, as well as key industry associations, the minister will discuss competitiveness, market access, sustainability leadership and future growth opportunities for B.C. seafood producers.
