News Release Archive
FISHERIES--1996 FISHING INDUSTRY MARKED BY POSITIVE HIGHLIGHTS ----------------------------------------------------------------- Recent statistics show that 1996 was a banner year for Nova Scotia seafood exports, said Fisheries Minister Jim Barkhouse. Export values totalled $799.4 million for the year. "This is a slight increase over 1995 figures, and represents the highest export values to date," said Mr. Barkhouse. Nova Scotia produces some of the most sought after seafood in the world including live lobster, scallops, and crabs. The province enjoys an excellent reputation for high quality product, both fresh and processed, said the minister. "It's not by happenstance that we are well-positioned in global markets," he said. "Seafood suppliers have worked hard to provide consistent supplies, ensure product quality, establish good distribution systems, and fight for air space against competitors." Mr. Barkhouse pointed out that prices for live lobster remained strong in 1996 and exports are expected to approach the 1995 value of $230 million. While Nova Scotia suppliers continue to sell lobster products to traditional markets in the United States, France and the United Kingdom, new markets are opening in Asia and Europe. The value of live lobster exports to Hong Kong grew ten fold to $13.3 million between 1992 and 1995. "The global market for seafood products is dynamic, always moving according to prices, availability of product, and trends in consumer tastes. Nova Scotia seafood producers are aggressive marketers and have succeeded in staying on top of developments," said Mr. Barkhouse. Mr. Barkhouse said groundfish landings improved in 1996, with quota increases for several important stocks, particularly cod and haddock in waters off southwestern Nova Scotia. Recommendations for 1997 indicate that quota levels will continue to improve, mainly in the southwest part of the province. In response to strong demand for new and fresh seafood products, Nova Scotia producers are offering innovative new products, including shrimp and a variety of crabs, said the minister. For example, a cold storage system has been designed to keep shrimp alive for shipping, "adding value to the product and higher revenues to the industry," he said. Developments in new fisheries for non-traditional species are encouraging and are helping the industry diversify, said Mr. Barkhouse. A new inshore shrimp fishery using traps showed good results in 1996. "Today, we have an established fishery for 10 licensed harvesters doing about $1 million worth of fishing. There may be potential for more licences in the near future." Aquaculture continued to make gains in 1996 with production increasing to about $13 million from $11 million the previous year. Aquaculture is expanding and creating new jobs for Nova Scotians, said the minister. "By the year 2000, we expect to have an industry with a production value of $45 million and employing close to 1000 people." Sportfishing, currently valued at $82 million a year, is another sector that saw growth in 1996 due to efforts to promote new opportunities for winter fishing and for non-traditional species including small-mouth bass and pickerel. Saltwater sportfishery is also gaining in popularity particularly in association with the growing eco-tourism sector. "Diversification continues to keep the fishery vibrant and strong. We are building on our strengths and growing the economy by diversifying in the traditional fishery, aquaculture, sportfishing and other developmental sectors," he said. -30- Contact: Diane Kenny 902-424-0308 trp Mar. 26, 1997 - 2:45 p.m.