Türkiye’s seafood exporters generated just over $18 million in sales to China from January through September 2026, a 190% rise as shipments climbed 153% to 1,588 tons, Anadolu Agency reported.
The Aegean Exporters’ Association figures cited by Anadolu put salmon sales at nearly $5.5 million, up 93% from a year earlier. Tuna exports brought in $4.5 million. Sea cucumber sales rose 138% to $3.7 million, while frozen snail exports increased 133% to $1.9 million.
Anadolu Agency linked the expansion to market access following seafood protocols Türkiye and China signed in October 2025. Türkiye’s Agriculture Ministry said separate protocols set inspection and health requirements for wild-caught and farmed seafood exported to China. China’s General Administration of Customs issued Announcement No. 236 of 2025, setting import requirements under the protocols.
Ufuk Atakan Demir, president of the Aegean Seafood and Animal Products Exporters’ Association, told Anadolu Agency that stronger sales create opportunities for Turkish producers and exporters to build long-term relationships with Chinese buyers. He urged the industry to promote its products and strengthen ties with those buyers.
