BARNSTABLE – The Chinese are consuming large amounts of American lobster which is good news for local lobstermen.
Exports of U.S. lobster to China have skyrocketed over the past few years due to a growing middle class in that country.
“The middle class has the expendable funds to enjoy products like the American lobster,” said Beth Casoni, the executive director of the Massachusetts Lobstermen’s Association.
In China, a steamed, whole lobster is a festive delicacy, a good-luck symbol and a mark of prosperity.
American exports of live or processed lobster to China has climbed from $2.1 million in 2009 to 90.5 million in 2014.
Casoni said local lobstermen are feeling the effects as the price of lobster has increased by about $1 per pound compared to last year.
“I’ve noticed that more fisherman are reinvesting in their businesses,” she said. “They are putting new motors in and buying new gear and there’s definitely a little bit of ease where the last several years the price has been low and the cost of doing business has been high.”
Casoni said lower gas prices are also helping lobstermen.
The live exports are flown to China and it takes about 72 hours to get from the boat to the dealers.
“It’s my understanding that they go through a purging process and they chill them to a colder degree to get them ready to fly,” she said. “And now with the direct flights coming out of [Boston] directly to Asia, it’s great for the industry.”
China also imports lobsters from Australia, South Africa, Canada and the Caribbean.
The demand for the U.S. variety continues to be strong year-round.
By BRIAN MERCHANT, CapeCod.com NewsCenter
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