Core Viewpoint - The seafood market in Kunming is experiencing a price drop following the National Day and Mid-Autumn Festival, with significant reductions in the prices of various seafood, particularly hairy crabs, due to abundant supply and expected further declines by the end of the month [1][5][13]. Price Trends - Various seafood prices have decreased, with hairy crabs being the most notable, currently priced at 28 yuan, 38 yuan, and 48 yuan for different sizes, down by 2-3 yuan compared to the National Day period [5][6]. - The price of hairy crabs is expected to drop further by the end of October, with predictions of 4.5 taels crabs potentially falling from 48 yuan to around 40 yuan each [5][6]. - Other seafood prices have also decreased, such as large prawns at 70 yuan per kilogram (down from 75-80 yuan) and sea bass from 48-50 yuan to 45 yuan per kilogram [5][6]. Market Supply and Demand - The market is currently well-supplied with seafood, particularly hairy crabs, which are expected to have better quality and taste as the month progresses [1][13]. - The supply of hairy crabs is primarily from Jiangsu, with prices ranging from 18 to 58 yuan each, and the market is anticipating the arrival of crabs from Hubei [13]. Consumer Behavior - The introduction of live cooking services at stores like Hema Fresh has enhanced consumer experience and boosted sales, making it convenient for busy customers [11]. - Special promotions, such as crab bundles at discounted prices, have attracted younger consumers, indicating a shift in purchasing behavior towards value-oriented options [9]. Availability of Yangcheng Lake Crabs - The renowned Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs are notably scarce in the Kunming market, primarily due to limited supply directed towards major cities like Beijing and Shanghai [14][15]. - Factors affecting the availability include a slower growth rate this year and potential logistical issues with middlemen delaying shipments [15][16]. - The total expected production of Yangcheng Lake hairy crabs for the year is approximately 10,350 tons, with specific harvest timelines outlined [16].

Core Viewpoint - The "small opening fishing" policy allows certain fishing boats to start fishing earlier during the annual closed fishing season, resulting in better seafood yields and significant price drops this year. Group 1: Seafood Market Conditions - The Zhejiang Songmen Seafood Wholesale Market is bustling with a variety of seafood, particularly featuring a high volume of lead fish [1] - The price of lead fish has decreased from 800 yuan per box (approximately 45 kg) to around 170-180 yuan per box recently, indicating a significant price drop while maintaining good quality [3] - The price of swimming crabs has fallen from 150 yuan per kg to about 70 yuan per kg, and shrimp prices have decreased from 28 yuan per kg to 18 yuan per kg, reflecting the increased supply [5] Group 2: Impact of Supply on Prices - The quality of swimming crabs priced at 70 yuan per kg is attributed to local fishing methods, and prices are expected to drop further with the influx of Zhoushan swimming crabs [7] - The wholesale seafood market's pricing is highly influenced by the fluctuations in catch volume, with better yields leading to greater price volatility [7]

Core Insights - The article highlights a significant drop in the price of Chinese mitten crabs due to an abundant supply from recent fishing activities in the East China Sea, with wholesale prices falling by approximately 50% compared to previous years [2][9][15]. Price Trends - The wholesale price of mitten crabs has decreased to around 15-16 yuan per jin, compared to 50-60 yuan per jin in previous years [2][9]. - In Shanghai, prices have also dropped, with reports of consumers being able to purchase more crabs for the same amount of money compared to last month [6][14]. - The average daily trading volume of mitten crabs at the wholesale market has exceeded 100,000 jin [9]. Market Dynamics - The influx of crabs has led to aggressive selling strategies, with vendors resorting to low-price clearance sales if their stock remains unsold by early morning [4][6]. - The market is experiencing high demand despite the price drop, with some vendors reporting sales of 200 jin per day [10][12]. Regional Variations - Prices in Chengdu range from 50 to 80 yuan per jin, with smaller crabs priced lower [14]. - In Ningbo, new arrivals of mitten crabs are categorized by size and quality, with prices ranging from 70 to 100 yuan per jin [14]. Future Outlook - The fishing industry anticipates an increase in the supply of seafood, including mitten crabs, as more fishing boats return to port, which may lead to further price reductions [15]. - Industry experts are monitoring the impact of weather conditions, such as typhoons and cold waves, on crab fishing activities [16].