Demand for crabs is growing in Russia — VARPE

In 2024, the domestic market experienced a significant 20% increase in crab deliveries, reaching approximately 8 thousand tons, as reported by the All-Russian Association of Fishery Enterprises, Entrepreneurs and Exporters (VARPE). This growth is attributed to rising consumer demand and high crab stock levels, with an anticipated continuation of this trend into 2025. Despite crabs representing a minor share (1.7%) of Russia's total aquatic bioresources extraction, they contribute significantly to the country's exports, particularly to Southeast Asian markets. A notable increase in crab sales was observed in Russia during the first 9 months of 2024, with significant growth in sales of frozen and chilled crabs, canned, and preserved products. However, the domestic market for crabs is not yet fully formed, with crab products accounting for a very small share of the overall fish product market. The article also highlights a rise in the permissible catch of snow crab opilio by 2.4 thousand tons and discusses the development of crab consumption culture in Russia.