The seascape around seafood exhibitions in Europe has seen changes in recent years – not least with the shift of Seafood Expo Global from Brussels to Barcelona – and the vacuum left by the Covid-19 pandemic as practically every exhibition for a couple of years was cancelled.
An announced newcomer to the scene, the planned ColdWater Seafood fair to be held in Amsterdam this year (unfortunately clashing with both DanFish and Itech Mer) has been cancelled.
The new event was expected to be a solidly Norwegian affair, anticipated to be populated with at leats half of its exhibitors showcasing seafood of Norwegian origin.
According to the organisers, the backdrop to this is the proposed new 40% aquaculture tax in Norway, in addition to 22% coroporation tax, that has left the industry in a prologned state of uncertainty – and reluctant to be adventurous.
‘It is a pity for the whole industry that a taxation system is changed overnight, and we feel strongly with the market operators and their uncertain situation. We will therefore postpone with one year, giving us even better time to plan a world leading exhibition and conference on sustainable seafood,’ said Vidar Onarheim, CEO of organising company AqKva said, commenting that they plan to be back in 2024.
‘We are determined to make Coldwater Seafood 2024 an unforgettable event for all participants, and we thank all those who have already expressed their support and understanding and look forward to seeing you in 2024 to celebrate the fishing and seafood industry.’
New Istanbul seafood launches
While the October event in Amsterdam has been scratched, a new venture is scheduled for Istanbul in early December, with organisers Seafood Expo Development (SED) aiming to bring east and west together.
Seafood Expo Eurasia is scheduled for 7-9 December 7-9 at the Tuyap Fair and Congress Center in Istanbul, and the organisers are promoting this as a ‘truly global exhibition that breaks down geographical and political barriers.’
‘It brings together fishery companies from around the world, creating an international platform for industry professionals to connect and collaborate. Seafood Expo Eurasia provides a unique opportunity to connect with both small and large fishery companies. This presents attendees with a chance to discover hidden industry gems and expand their business network,’ said show director Anna Shelkova.
‘Seafood Expo Eurasia is designed with a business-focused approach in mind. The event understands the unique challenges faced by the fishery industry and creates an experience that meets the diverse needs of its attendees. The event’s flexible approach ensures a stress-free and successful experience, promoting a positive business spirit. We hope that our event will help participants to make meaningful connections and gain insights into the global market,’ she said.
‘Our international team has diverse experience in fishery and exhibition organization, which enables us to better understand the needs of our clients. We are proud to represent different cultures and languages, including Turkish, English, German, Russian, French, Arabic, Chinese, and Spanish, which allows us to serve a wider range of participants.’
