In a landmark collaboration aimed at growing the per capita consumption of sustainable shrimp, the Global Shrimp Council (GSC) has been officially established with essential backing from the National Fisheries Institute (NFI) and the initial
support of more than 20 companies committed to joining GSC as founding members. This includes producers from India (7), Ecuador (6), Indonesia (2), Guatemala (1), Mexico (1), Honduras (1), Saudi Arabia (1), Sri Lanka (1) and Venezuela (1)
The NFI, a leading voice in the seafood industry, has pledged its support to the GSC, recognizing the importance of a partnership to promote responsible shrimp farming and trade practices.
Key Objectives of the Global Shrimp Council:
1. Educate and Inspire American consumers: The GSC aims to increase consumption by reminding consumers, through targeted marketing communications and in store promotions, about the benefits of adding shrimp to their daily diet. The campaign will showcase the health benefits and incredible versatility of shrimp.
2. Sustainability Spotlight: Emphasizing the importance of responsible seafood choices, the campaign will educate consumers about sustainable wild and farmed shrimp and its impact on the environment. By choosing responsibly sourced shrimp, consumers promote sustainability.
Quotes:
David Castro – GSC founding member: “The creation of the Global Shrimp Council marks a significant milestone in the journey of a sustainable and responsible shrimp industry. By bringing together key players and leveraging the support of the National Fisheries Institute, we are confident in our ability to harmonize the interests of participants in this significant industry through a systemic vision. One of these interests is to introduce the global consumer to the benefits of consuming the finest sustainably produced protein sources, such as shrimp,” said David Castro, Chief Executive Officer at Manta Bay, a Mexico-based seafood trading company, and one of the initiators for the meeting.”
Gabriel Luna – GSC Founding Member – “This announcement comes after a previous meeting held at the Global Shrimp Forum in Utrecht, Netherlands, where producers from several countries including Ecuador, Mexico, India, Vietnam and Indonesia agreed on the need to establish a global body to promote shrimp consumption across international markets. I want to thank the more than 20 participants at the meeting who pledged immediate support to kick off this initiative supporting the idea we presented along with David Castro, to create the Global Shrimp Council (GSC) under the umbrella of the National Fisheries Institute (NFI) in the US.”
Sandro Coglitore, a prominent figure and advocate within the shrimp sector, extended his heartfelt congratulations to David and Gabriel on the establishment of the GSC recognizing the critical role that such a council will play in growing shrimp popularity and consumption worldwide. Mr. Coglitore also extended an invitation to more exporters and seafood
organizations to join hands with the GSC emphasizing the importance of collective action, not only to support shrimp promotion but also to deal with issues such as anti-dumping and other industry challenges.
“Rajagopal Choudary Chitturi, Chairman of one of India’s largest Indian shrimp export companies, and a prominent figure in the Indian shrimp industry, applauds the establishment of the Global Shrimp Council. He repeats that Indian exporters that participated in the first Global Shrimp Council meeting at the Global Shrimp Forum in Utrecht in September 2023
collectively support the initiative and very much look forward to the next steps.”
Miguel Barcenas – Strategy Consultant for the GSC – “I´m very excited for this collaboration which will allow us to launch an exciting marketing campaign aimed at promoting shrimp consumption first in the US and gradually across the world. The goal is to inspire consumers to indulge in this delectable and versatile seafood. From classic shrimp ceviche to innovative
coconut curry shrimp the campaign promises to bring a wave of flavor and awareness to dining tables nationwide, highlighting the various health benefits, culinary possibilities, and the sustainability of shrimp consumption. Shrimp is not only a delicious addition to any meal but also a low-calorie source of protein and essential nutrients.”
Lisa Wallenda Picard – President and CEO for the National Fisheries: “We are proud to support the Global Shrimp Council in its mission to increase consumption of sustainable shrimp through education and inspiration. Collaborative efforts like these are essential to address thechallenges facing our oceans and ensure that shrimp and seafood remain a tasty, healthy and
sustainable choice for consumers.”
About the Global Shrimp Council:
The Global Shrimp Council is a non-profit organization dedicated to increase per capita consumption of shrimp worldwide through targeted promotions and consumer education. By fostering collaboration among stakeholders, the GSC aims to create a stronger, sustainable and resilient shrimp sector.
About the National Fisheries Institute:
The National Fisheries Institute is the leading trade association for the seafood industry. Representing companies throughout the seafood value chain, the NFI is committed to advancing sustainable practices, promoting seafood consumption, and supporting initiatives that contribute to a healthy and thriving seafood industry.