FAO: Global mussel and scallop trade weakened in Q1

SeafoodNews, September 29 — According to a report by the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO), trade in mussels and scallops weakened in the first quarter of 2026, while trade flows for oyste

rs and clams saw little change.

Chile remained the world’s largest exporter of mussels, yet its shipments fell to around 22,000 tonnes in January‑March, a year‑on‑year drop of 6,000 tonnes. Spain also faced reduced available supplies due to closed fishing seasons and mortality events in Galicia.

Weaker trade in scallops stemmed from lower demand in the United States.

U.S. imports dropped to approximately 4,500 tonnes, less than half the volume recorded in the first quarter of 2025.

Export prices for Japanese frozen scallops rose to $26.50 per pound (compared with $10.25 per pound in early 2024), though its exports to the United States fell by 52 percent.

China exported 9,690 tonnes of scallops, edging past Japan, while Vietnam doubled its exports to 4,710 tonnes.

Global oyster exports held generally steady at 20,220 tonnes. France shipped 3,160 tonnes, narrowly ahead of South Korea’s 3,020 tonnes.