The International Boston Seafood Show wrapped up another great year, hosting members of the seafood industry for the East Coast’s largest gathering of manufacturers, importers, processors and buyers. Rick Quinn and Shelly Li, from our Maryland and Qingdao, China office, respectively, attended the event to meet with current clients from India, China and other countries, as well as connect with friends, partners and contacts that were exhibiting or attending. “We’re seeing a need for help, especially for Import Alerts,” said Mr. Quinn. “Private companies, foreign governments and industry associations are feeling increasingly behind when it comes to FDA regulation and emerging legislation.” FDAImports.com and China branch, ExportToUsa.com.cn, are helping more and more foreign companies with FDA compliance, especially removal from Import Alerts. “We couldn’t get to people fast enough while we were at the show,” said Mr. Quinn.
FDAImports.com asked Steve Hedlund, Editor of SeafoodSource.com and part of the DivCom team, what trends he observed at this year’s show.
The show went really well. It was the biggest Boston show ever, and there was a positive mood on the show floor. I think exhibitors and visitors alike are optimistic about the economy bouncing back. Especially exhibitors from overseas, they’re taking a good look at the U.S. market partly because the EU market isn’t as strong as it used to be. One thing’s for certain: Demand for seafood remains strong. Supply (rather, lack of supply) is still the No. 1 challenge facing the industry. I expect next year’s show to grow even more.
Slideshow: FDAImports.com and ExportToUsa.com.cn at Boston Seafood Show 2012