Russian fish exports to China rise 50% to $2.64 billion in January-July 2026

Russia expands its lead in China’s seafood market

Russian fish and seafood exports to China increased 1.5-fold in January-July 2026, reaching $2.64 billion, TASS reported on August 27, citing the Russian Fishery Industry Association, or VARPE. The expansion preserved Russia’s position as China’s largest supplier of fish products and raised its share of the country’s seafood imports to 16.7%.

According to VARPE, Russia increased its share of Chinese fish imports by three percentage points during the seven-month period. Association president German Zverev said this was the largest gain recorded by any supplier country. VARPE also said Russia widened its lead over competing exporters, although the association did not provide their market shares or shipment values.

Pollock and crab account for the largest values

Growth was recorded across nearly all major product groups. Russian pollock exports to China rose 63% to $808.6 million, making pollock the largest product category identified in the association’s figures. Crab shipments increased 33% to $793.3 million, while herring exports advanced 70% to $136.4 million. Together, pollock and crab generated more than $1.6 billion in sales.

VARPE linked the gains to several supply and market factors. Stabilized pollock catches and record results from the herring fishing season supported greater availability for export. Russian companies’ marketing strategy in China’s crab market also contributed to growth. Demand for flatfish rose unexpectedly, driving Russian shipments to 3.3 times their previous level and lifting their value to $59.5 million.

Fishmeal demand and tariff risks shape the outlook

A weak fishing season in Peru and lower fishmeal production strengthened Chinese demand for Russian fishmeal, according to Zverev. Russian supplies increased 30% to 126.7 million; the association’s statement, as reproduced by TASS, did not specify the unit or currency for that figure. Peru is a major influence on the international fishmeal market, making changes in its output relevant to alternative suppliers.

VARPE identified the possible return of Russian export duties as the principal risk for seafood sales to China. It also described lower Chinese tariff barriers as an unrealized opportunity because competitors receive more favorable rates for some products. A VARPE study conducted in 2024 estimated that Russian fish exports to China could reach 1.8 million tonnes worth $4.87 billion by 2030. Reaching that level would require Russia to maintain catch availability, defend its position in high-value crab and pollock categories, and improve tariff conditions in the Chinese market.