UK Pavilion Highlights Quality and Sustainability
This week, the UK seafood industry made a significant impact at the Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona, sending a clear message that it is ready to expand in international markets.
Export-ready exhibitors from across the United Kingdom showcased a wide array of high-quality and sustainably sourced seafood products. This showcase is bolstered by a £1.5 million annual Seafood Exports Package from the UK Government, aimed at accelerating export growth.
The Expo in Barcelona gathered over 35,000 seafood professionals representing more than 150 countries. This event provided an unmatched platform for buyers, suppliers, and industry leaders to connect, share innovations, and explore new market opportunities.
Dame Angela Eagle, UK Government’s Minister of State for Food Security and Rural Affairs, highlighted the significance of the event: “Seafood Expo Global is a vital opportunity to showcase the very best of UK fish and shellfish on the world stage.” She emphasised the UK’s seafood quality, provenance, and the skill of the communities involved.
UK Seafood’s Diverse Offerings
With over 11,000 kilometres of coastline and nutrient-rich waters, the UK is ideally positioned to provide world-class seafood. Varieties include Atlantic cod, haddock, mackerel, Welsh lobster, Yorkshire brown crab, whelks, scallops, octopus, Cornish sardines, monkfish, hake, lemon sole, and plaice.
The UK’s seafood offerings reflect both regional heritage and modern excellence. Skilled coastal communities have honed their expertise over generations, combining traditional knowledge with modern techniques to deliver high-quality produce for international markets.
Colin Faulkner, Chief Executive of Seafish, emphasised the industry’s standards: “UK fish and shellfish is recognised globally for its short, transparent and traceable supply chains, alongside rigorous food safety and welfare standards.”
Many UK businesses exceed statutory requirements, holding internationally recognised voluntary accreditations that set them apart in the global market. These accreditations ensure that UK seafood is celebrated for its reliable quality and sustainable practices.
The UK’s participation in the Expo is also part of the GREAT Britain & Northern Ireland campaign, which aims to promote the nation’s food and drink on an international scale. This participation underscores the UK’s commitment to expanding its seafood exports.
UK exhibitors at the Expo were able to build new partnerships and demonstrate why UK seafood is highly regarded worldwide. The event served as a platform to reinforce the UK’s reputation for exceptional quality, trusted provenance, and sustainable practices, setting the stage for future growth in global markets.
Last updated: 24 April 2026, 10:49 am
