Trade volatility is forcing global seafood companies to adapt, with inflation and tariffs reshaping supply chains and influencing consumer behavior, according to new research from Rabobank’s RaboResearch unit.
The report underscores that affordability has become a key driver of seafood demand worldwide. In the U.S., rising import tariffs are compounding inflation-related price concerns, pushing more consumers toward lower-cost protein alternatives. In China, seafood demand is expected to see a slight recovery compared to last year, but persistent price sensitivity is likely to limit overall growth and encourage continued downtrading.
Given these conditions, some exporters are shifting their focus to European markets, where consumer demand remains comparatively stronger.
RaboResearch seafood analyst Novel Sharma said these developments indicate more than temporary market disruptions. “We’re likely seeing the start of a broader, long-term reshaping of seafood trade flows,” said Sharma. He noted that ongoing tariff uncertainty—even if resolved—may already be driving exporters to reconsider long-term market strategies.