Chan Ye Xin Xi Wang·2025-10-14 00:44Core Insights - The demand for seafood products, particularly Chinese mitten crabs, has surged due to rapid economic development in China, leading to a significant increase in domestic crab catch, which has now exceeded production levels [1][7] - The Chinese government has implemented fishing bans to protect marine environments, resulting in a continuous decline in domestic crab catch since 2014, despite rising market demand [1][7] - China has become a major importer of mitten crabs globally, with imports recovering to 922.55 tons in 2024 after a significant drop during the pandemic [1][7] - The export of mitten crabs has decreased, with projections showing a decline to 79.09 tons in 2024 [1][7] Industry Overview - The mitten crab, known for its delicious taste and high economic value, is primarily found in China's coastal waters, with the most common species being the Portunus trituberculatus [3][11] - The industry is characterized by a large number of small to medium-sized enterprises, with major companies concentrated in resource-rich regions like Zhejiang, Fujian, and Jiangsu [11] Import and Export Trends - In 2022, the import of live, fresh, or chilled mitten crabs fell by 54.1% to 260.68 tons due to pandemic impacts, while exports rose by 57.7% to 293.96 tons [1][7] - By 2025, the import amount for the first eight months was 568.83 tons, a decrease of 30.1% year-on-year, while exports dropped by 66.5% to 10.88 tons [1][8] Market Dynamics - The mitten crab industry is experiencing a shift towards high-end and diversified consumer demands, with a growing preference for organic and high-quality products [13][14] - Technological advancements, including IoT and AI, are expected to enhance precision in crab farming, improving product quality and yield stability [15] - Sustainable practices are becoming mainstream, with a focus on eco-friendly farming techniques and certifications that enhance product value [16] Related Companies - Major companies in the mitten crab industry include Shandong Haodangjia Ocean Development Co., Ltd., and Zhuangzi Island Group Co., Ltd., which are involved in various aspects of crab farming, processing, and trade [11][12]