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Photo: Stockfile/FIS
FAO: 'Global Bivalve Mollusk Demand Rises Amid Declining Supply'
 WORLDWIDE
Monday, January 20, 2025, 06:00 (GMT + 9)
Demand for bivalve mollusks surges across Europe during the summer months as consumers increasingly prioritize sustainable seafood. According to FAO-Globefish, 2024 continues this trend, with bivalve mollusks remaining a top choice for eco-conscious diners.
Despite the peak production season in the Northern Hemisphere, prices have generally risen, reflecting a tightening supply. As winter approaches, demand is expected to decline—a typical seasonal pattern. Outside of oysters, most mollusks see reduced popularity during the festive season (e.g., Christmas and year-end holidays in Western countries). While overall trade levels remain consistent with last year, the market shows signs of stabilization with evolving consumption trends.
Mussels
The global mussel trade remained steady in the first half of 2024, with exports totaling 171,000 tonnes, comparable to the same period in 2023. Chile continues to dominate as the world's largest mussel exporter.
In France, mussel production has experienced several positive developments this year. The market continues to expand steadily, fueled by growing consumer interest in sustainable seafood. Valued for their high protein and omega-3 content, mussels are versatile, finding their way into direct consumption, processed foods, and even animal feed. This rising demand aligns with a broader shift toward healthier diets and increased awareness of nutritional benefits. With these favorable trends, the French mussel industry is poised for continued growth in the coming years.
 Oysters
France, Europe’s leading oyster producer, is grappling with significant challenges in 2024. Rising production costs, disease outbreaks, and environmental pressures, including water quality issues, are straining the sector. Despite these hurdles, oysters remain a key player in festive and luxury seafood markets, ensuring their relevance in European cuisine.
 Scallops
Scallop production is heavily concentrated in Asia, with global trade in the first half of 2024 reaching 83,000 tonnes, an 18% decline compared to the previous year. The drop was primarily driven by reduced exports from Japan, the world's largest scallop supplier.
 Clams
Global clam production stands at approximately 3 million tonnes annually, with Italy producing 50,000 tonnes, making it the leading producer in Europe and second worldwide, after China. However, Italy’s clam production faces challenges from invasive green crabs that prey on young shellfish, including oysters, mussels, and cockles.
China remains the largest producer and exporter of clams, accounting for roughly half of global exports. During the review period, China exported 65,000 tonnes of clams, an 8,000-tonne increase over the same period last year. South Korea and Japan remain China’s top markets, with imports rebounding from last year's low levels. Despite global seafood market difficulties, the Italian clam industry remains active, driven by consistent consumer demand for sustainable seafood.
Forecast
The future of bivalve aquaculture is increasingly threatened by climate change, which has already impacted production. The FAO projects that declining supply, particularly in countries like Italy, will continue to drive prices upward in major global markets. As demand outpaces production, the need for innovative and sustainable aquaculture practices will become even more critical.
editorial@seafood.media
www.seafood.media
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