Canadian fish and seafood exports to Mena rose to more than CAD 7.6 million ($7.14 million) in 2007, recording a 43 per cent increase over the previous year, according to the Consulate of Canada in Dubai.

With the aim of taking a larger share of the regional seafood market, 15 Canadian companies are set to take part in ‘Sea Food Expo 2008’, the region’s only dedicated seafood exhibition, which is to be heldfrom October 27 to 29, in Dubai.

Canada is the world’s fourth largest exporter of fish and seafood products, exporting to approximately 130 countries.

Over 30 percent of Canada’s fish and seafood exports to the Mena region find their way to the UAE marketplace.

The booming demand for higher-end seafood products such as scallops, lobster, crab, shrimp, oysters, mussels, and salmon in the region, especially in the dynamic growth economies like the UAE, has attracted the attention of top Canadian seafood players, thereby prompting them to establish a significant presence at this year’s ‘Sea Food Expo’.

"The growth of the hospitality sector and the rising number of ever-more affluent and demanding tourists are driving growth for innovative foodservice menus featuring high quality and variety when it comes to fish and seafood products."

"This is recognized as an important market opportunity by an increasing number of Canadian seafood companies," said Rick Seguin, consul and trade commissioner, Canadian Consulate Dubai.

"The presence of state-of-the-art air cargo handling facilities and new non-stop Canada-UAE air services is also fuelling Canadian seafood players’ interest in fully leveraging this profitable market," he added.

Canada’s stringent fish inspection and control systems largely contribute to the world class reputation held by its seafood products, which are also currently being delivered to a number of five-star hotels across the Middle East.

Following the success of last year’s event, the organisers are anticipating the participation of more than 170 companies from 30 countries this year.-TradeArabia News Service