Chinese seafood imports have seen a significant decrease in 2020, with a 45% drop in August compared to the previous year, and a 31% decrease in September. The decrease is attributed to low demand and stricter inspections at ports due to concerns about the COVID-19 virus being present in imported seafood. The import value of seafood in the first nine months of the year was down 13% year-on-year, with shrimp imports making up nearly half of the decline. The CEO of a Qingdao processing company blames difficult import procedures for delays and increased costs, but notes that the processing industry for re-export is complying with the new regulations.