Honduras seeks to expand its shrimp exports, with China as a key market

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According to a report by Infobae, following the uncertainty among Honduran shrimp producers about the future of their product, Foreign Minister Eduardo Reina announced that the government is exploring markets in China and other countries to boost its exportation. This comes after the diplomatic break with Taiwan two years ago, which affected the commercialization of Honduran shrimp.

On Friday, March 14, Reina stated that in an exchange of communications between the governments of China and Honduras, the possibility of exporting shrimp, melon, and tobacco to the People’s Republic of China was discussed. He also emphasized that Honduran shrimp has been well received in the Asian country and that the key to this process lies in marketing strategies and the creation of new business opportunities.

The foreign minister also mentioned that in mid-2023, two containers of shrimp were exported to China. Additionally, producers have participated in specialized trade fairs and negotiations with the Chinese government in pursuit of a potential free trade agreement.

In June of last year, Javier Amador, director of the National Association of Aquaculturists of Honduras (ANDAH), stated that the country had the capacity to export 250 containers of shrimp to China. However, in October, he expressed disappointment, as by that time, Chinese buyers had only purchased one container, calling the response from the Asian country “unpleasant and rude.”

In response to these statements, Minister Reina clarified that no contract had ever been signed guaranteeing the export of 250 containers. He also pointed out that, within the framework of free trade agreement negotiations with China, an early harvest agreement was reached, allowing Honduran shrimp to enter the Chinese market tariff-free, generating benefits for the sector.

Reina highlighted the intense competition in the shrimp market, citing the case of Mexico, where Honduran exports were initially restricted by a judicial order but can now enter that market again. Additionally, he noted that energy costs in Honduras are impacting producers’ competitiveness. However, he assured that President Xiomara Castro is leading an initiative to lower these costs and improve conditions for the sector.

The foreign minister also recalled that, under the free trade agreement with Taiwan, Honduran shrimp reached 20 million consumers, with a four-dollar per kilo subsidy, which was under review due to growing global competition, particularly from Ecuador.

Last but not least, Reina pointed out that the high costs of imported shrimp feed from the United States are affecting Honduras’ shrimp industry. However, ongoing negotiations with China are expected to lower these costs, making the product more affordable and competitive. This, according to the minister, reaffirms President Castro’s commitment to the sector and her efforts to secure financing and strengthen the country’s shrimp industry, last.

Main Source:

Honduras busca mercado para el camarón en China y otros mercados, según canciller – Infobae

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