Honduran shrimp farmers have set their sights on expanding into one of the world’s largest seafood markets, as they showcase their products at the Qingdao Seafood Fair from October 30 to November 1. Spearheaded by the Hondumei brand, a premium gourmet offering, the National Association of Aquaculturists of Honduras (Andah) and the Association of Small and Medium Aquaculturists of the South (Apemasur) are networking with potential buyers from China. The fair represents a critical opportunity for growth, aiming to elevate the presence of Honduran shrimp on the global stage.

Market Aspirations Beyond Fuzhou

The outlook for this year’s fair is cautiously optimistic. According to Juan Carlos Javier, president of Andah, there are high hopes that the engagement at Qingdao will exceed the modest 250 containers agreed upon during the earlier Fuzhou fair in mid-2024, where Honduran producers managed to export only two containers. While specific container targets for Qingdao remain unannounced, the industry leader expresses confidence that export volumes will ramp up significantly by 2025, a crucial horizon for both local farmers and the national economy.

The official debut of the HonduMei brand at this prestigious event is anticipated to draw considerable attention. With its slightly sweet flavor profile, this premium shrimp is being positioned wisely to cater to a discerning clientele in China, which continues to seek out high-quality seafood products. Javier Amador, executive director of Andah, noted that several strategic business meetings with interested Chinese importers are on the agenda, underlining the serious interest in farmed shrimp processed in the Choluteca and Valle regions.

Navigating a Challenging Landscape

The impetus for developing this market is partly a response to the struggles currently faced by Honduran aquaculturists, highlighted by a stark drop of 15 million pounds in exports during the third quarter of 2024. The Qingdao fair, therefore, not only serves as a platform for promotion but also as a potential lifeline for an industry confronting serious challenges. With its robust networking possibilities, the fair could well position Honduran shrimp as a favored choice among Chinese consumers, thereby breathing new life into local aquaculture.