The Philippines’ seafood industry achieved a major international milestone after generating a record USD514.8 million, or approximately ₱31.68 billion, in booked and negotiated sales during the 32nd Seafood Expo Global (SEG) 2026 held in Barcelona, Spain.

The strong performance highlighted the growing global demand for Philippine seafood and aquaculture products, reinforcing the country’s expanding reputation as a competitive and reliable supplier in the international seafood market.

Leading the Philippine delegation was Drusila Esther Bayate, who reported that confirmed or booked sales reached USD450.6 million (₱27.73 billion), while negotiated agreements generated an additional USD64.17 million (₱3.95 billion).

Agriculture Secretary Francisco P. Tiu Laurel Jr. said the successful participation of the Philippines in SEG 2026 demonstrates the vast potential of the country’s fisheries and aquaculture sector in the global market.

“SEG 2026 shows that, like the oceans themselves, there is a vast market for Philippine seafood if we improve standards and marketing,” Secretary Laurel emphasized.

Officials credited the strategic location and strong presentation of the Philippine pavilion for attracting buyers and investors from more than 150 countries who visited the exhibition.

Undersecretary Bayate highlighted that the record sales reflected both the high quality of Philippine seafood products and the dedication of local exporters in meeting international standards.

“These results reflect not just strong demand, but the dedication of our exporters and the importance of government support in navigating international regulations and positioning Philippine seafood competitively,” Bayate stated.

The Philippine delegation included key officials from the Department of Agriculture (DA), the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, regional fisheries offices, and the National Fisheries Research and Development Institute. Supporting the delegation were Philippine Agriculture Attaché Nolet Fulgencio and Consul General Maria Theresa Sta. Maria Lazaro, who facilitated meetings and networking opportunities with European buyers and importers.

The government delegation worked closely with 12 participating Philippine exporters, providing assistance in market positioning, compliance with European Union standards, and identifying emerging business opportunities.

At the expo, Philippine exhibitors showcased a wide range of high-value seafood products, including fresh and processed fishery products, while also emphasizing sustainability initiatives and modern production technologies.

SEG 2026 also highlighted innovations in aquaculture, including artificial intelligence-assisted fish processing systems and sustainable aquafeed technologies. With more than 2,000 exhibitors from around the world, the Philippines’ strong showing underscored the country’s competitiveness in the rapidly evolving global seafood industry.

Initial feedback from participating exporters indicated strong potential for expanded business partnerships and future international trade opportunities. Officials stressed the importance of continued government support in areas such as technical assistance, logistics, product certification, and regulatory compliance to help local exporters maximize their global market potential.

As worldwide demand for seafood products continues to rise, the Philippines’ outstanding performance at Seafood Expo Global 2026 positions the country as an emerging leader in sustainable seafood production and international fisheries trade.