China's Shrimp Exports Rebound Beyond Pre-Spring Festival Level, Nearly 4,000 Tonnes Shipped in April

Latest customs data released in May 2026 shows that China's shrimp exports have staged a strong recovery, exceeding the volume seen before the Spring Festival. The export volume hit nearly 4,000 tonnes in April. Shrimp products account for over 70% of warm-water shrimp exports, marking a phased upturn across the industry. This article elaborates on export figures, market performance and industry trends as follows.

I. Key Export Data: Exports Exceed 10,000 Tonnes from January to April with Rising Average Prices

From January to April 2026, China's total shrimp exports reached 11,403 tonnes, valued at 113 million US dollars, with an average export price of 9.89 US dollars per kilogram. During the same period, total exports of warm-water shrimp products stood at 14,707 tonnes, among which shrimp accounted for as high as 77.5%, making it the leading product in warm-water shrimp exports.

Monthly figures show a notable upward trend. The single-month export volume of shrimp approached 4,000 tonnes in April, registering growth both month-on-month and year-on-year. The export scale has surpassed the pre-Spring Festival level, reversing the previous sluggish export situation and sending positive signals of recovering market demand.

II. Market Status: Rebounding Demand and Stable Prices Boost Export Momentum

The current export recovery is mainly driven by two factors:

• Reviving overseas demand: Global demand for high-quality frozen shrimp has picked up. Supported by restocking peaks in catering and retail sectors, order volumes have increased. Traditional export markets including Southeast Asia and the Middle East show stronger purchasing willingness.

• Outstanding price competitiveness: Domestic shrimp processing capacity is stable with sufficient raw material supply. The average export price remains at a reasonable level of 9.89 US dollars per kilogram. Thanks to prominent cost performance, Chinese products have gained stronger competitiveness in the global market.

Meanwhile, the export structure of warm-water shrimp keeps improving. The rising proportion of shrimp, a high value-added product, indicates that China's aquatic processing industry is shifting from exporting raw materials to intensive processing, with product value continuously increasing.

III. Industry Outlook: Exports to Remain Resilient, Quality Upgrade as Long-term Development Focus

In the short term, the upward trend of shrimp exports is expected to continue. The upcoming peak consumption season overseas will keep driving order growth. In addition, domestic aquatic processors adhere to strict quality control and comply with international food safety standards, laying a solid foundation for exports.

In the long run, China's shrimp export sector needs to prioritize quality improvement and brand building. By raising standardized processing standards and developing independent export brands, the country can further consolidate its market share worldwide. It is also essential to actively explore emerging markets to reduce reliance on individual regions and promote high-quality development of the aquatic export industry.