China’s marine ingredients and aquafeed production in the first months of 2023 has remained subdued, partly because of the seasonal activity slowdown in both the aquaculture and pig farming sector, partly because of the Covid wave that hit the country and the long holiday breaks.

According to a report released by IFFO, an international trade organization that represents the marine ingredients industry, Chinese marine ingredients and aquafeed production remains still.

IPPO's relevant press release goes as follows:

"Little time is left before the new fishing ban along the Chinese coastline will be re-imposed on May 1. By-products from processed fish destined to direct human consumption are getting more important as a source of raw material for reduction, together with imports of marine ingredients.

"Aquafeed production in the first months of 2023 has remained subdued, partly because of the seasonal activity slowdown in both the aquaculture and pig farming sector, partly because of the Covid wave that hit the country and the long holiday breaks. Aquafarming activities have so far remained confined to some areas of Guangdong, Guangxi and Hainan provinces. It is expected that the sector will reactivate when temperatures rise in April-May.

"The pig sector is still facing a situation where over supply has to deal with seasonally weak demand and rising numbers of African Swine Fever (ASF) being reported in the northern provinces. Understanding the ups and downs of the Chinese pig industry is of great importance as this is a sector capable of consuming significant amounts of fishmeal per year."