Ankara:Turkey's seafood exports to China have experienced significant growth, nearly tripling with a 190% increase year-on-year between January and September. This surge comes after the signing of new bilateral trade agreements between Turkey and China last October, facilitating a total export value exceeding $18 million.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, the agreements included a protocol on inspection and health requirements for both wild-caught and farmed aquatic products, which eased the entry of Turkish seafood into the Chinese market. The total volume of Turkish aquatic exports to China rose by 153%, reaching 1,588 tons this year.

Leading the export surge were salmon and tuna. Salmon exports increased in revenue by 93% to nearly $5.5 million, with shipping volumes rising from 433 tons to 861 tons. Tuna exports followed, generating $4.5 million in revenue and reaching 291 metric tons, compared to zero exports during the same period last year.

Additionally, sea cucumber sales saw a 138% increase, generating $3.7 million, while frozen snail exports rose by 133%, amounting to $1.9 million. Ufuk Atakan Demir, president of the Aegean Seafood and Animal Products Exporters' Association, indicated that the figures since last year's protocol establishment have encouraged expansion in Turkish aquaculture. Demir urged Turkish producers and exporters to promote their products and build stronger relationships with Chinese buyers to maintain the growth momentum.