SET TO BREAK RECORDS IN BARCELONA

Set to break records in Barcelona Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global 2026

The global seafood industry is preparing for a landmark gathering as Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global returns to Barcelona for its 32nd edition—set to be the largest in the event’s history.

Taking place from 21–23 April 2026 at Fira de Barcelona’s Gran Via venue, the world’s leading seafood trade event will bring together exhibitors from more than 80 countries, reinforcing its status as the industry’s premier international marketplace.

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Record-breaking scale and global reach

This year’s edition has already surpassed expectations, with more than 52,907 net square metres of exhibition space sold and demand continuing to grow. The event will occupy the main halls of the Gran Via venue, underlining its scale and importance as a central meeting point for seafood professionals worldwide.

A total of 62 national and regional pavilions will be represented, showcasing the diversity and strength of the global seafood sector. New participants this year include organisations from Bulgaria, the Maldives, Mexico, Oman and Uruguay, further expanding the Expo’s international footprint.

Established seafood nations such as Canada, Chile, China, Ecuador, Norway, the United States and Vietnam will also be present, ensuring buyers have access to a comprehensive range of products and services from across the global supply chain.

Ireland and the UK make their mark

Ireland and the United Kingdom will once again demonstrate their strong presence at the Expo, with 74 exhibiting companies confirmed and numbers still rising.

Seafish, in partnership with the UK Government, will host the UK Pavilion for the fifth consecutive year, providing a central platform for British businesses. Meanwhile, Seafood Scotland will lead the Scotland Pavilion—marking its 32nd year coordinating Scotland’s participation—supported by Scottish Development International.

Leading Irish companies including Atlantic Dawn, Connemara Seafoods, Errigal Bay, Glenmar Shellfish, Keohane Seafood, Killybegs Seafoods, Premier Fish Products and Rockabill Seafood will attend, alongside service providers such as O’Toole Transport.

From the UK, major industry players such as Denholm Seafoods, Marine Stewardship Council, J Marr (Seafoods), Rooney Fish, Macduff Shellfish, Trinity Seafoods and Vestey Foods International will be joined by logistics and technology specialists including Ace Aquatec, DFDS Logistics, Tri-pack Packaging Systems and Kuehne + Nagel.

Aquaculture Innovation Zone makes its debut

A key highlight for 2026 is the launch of the Aquaculture Innovation Zone—a dedicated space for first-time exhibitors focused on aquaculture technologies, equipment and services.

The zone will bring together start-ups, suppliers and researchers presenting cutting-edge solutions in areas such as stock management and monitoring, fish health and welfare, and sustainable feed development.

Designed to attract a targeted audience of hatchery professionals, investors, policymakers and innovators, the space will also host networking meet-ups and expert-led conference sessions exploring the future of aquaculture.

A comprehensive industry showcase

Seafood Expo Global will feature an extensive range of seafood products, including fresh, frozen, canned, value-added and processed offerings. Exhibitors will connect with a global audience of buyers from retail, foodservice and distribution sectors.

Major seafood companies confirmed for 2026 include AquaChile, Cooke Inc., Leroy Seafood Group, Mowi, Nordic Group, Pescanova, Royal Greenland, Salmar, Samherji and Viciunai, among many others. A number of new exhibitors—such as Cheflink Seafood, Klaas Puul, Mark Foods and Catalina Food Solutions—will also make their debut.

Running alongside, Seafood Processing Global will present the latest developments in processing technology, refrigeration, packaging, hygiene, logistics and quality control. Leading companies such as Baader, JBT Marel, Multivac, ULMA and AKVA Group will be joined by new participants including Scanvaegt, ECOLAB and NORD Motorreductores.

Conference programme tackles industry challenges

The 2026 Conference Programme will feature more than 20 sessions led by industry experts, offering insights into the trends and challenges shaping the seafood sector.

Economist and geopolitical strategist Dr Nomi Prins will deliver the keynote address, titled “High Stakes, Shifting Tides: The Global Outlook on Seafood, Trade, Economic Pressure Points and Opportunities.”

Sessions throughout the programme will examine the role of automation and machine learning, sustainable blue food policies, market trends and product innovation. Critical issues such as supply chain compliance, traceability, transparency, corporate due diligence and seafood finance will also be addressed.

The essential meeting point for seafood professionals

With its record-breaking scale, expanded international participation and forward-looking programme, Seafood Expo Global/Seafood Processing Global 2026 is set to reaffirm its position as the definitive global platform for the seafood industry.

For more information and to register, visit: www.seafoodexpo.com/global.

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