Delegation visit continues trend of global interest in the “Gloucester Fresh” brand

NEWS RELEASE

For Immediate Release

(GLOUCESTER, Mass.) April 20, 2016 — Today the city of Gloucester announced that a lobster purchasing delegation led by the Consul General of China will visit on Monday April 25th for business meetings with Gloucester lobster companies.

The senior delegation of Chinese public officials, business leaders, and restaurant owners chose to visit Gloucester as a result of the promotion of the City’s seafood industry by the Office of Mayor Sefatia Romeo Theken. The visiting delegation will include; the Consulate General of People Republic of China in New York, the American Chinese Culinary Federation, and Boston Chinatown Main Streets. The delegation visit will include an official meeting with the Mayor, tours of Gloucester lobster companies as well as a Gloucester-China lobster business to business reception.

“I am excited about the potential for business opportunities for our City on a regional and international level with Chinese and Chinese American businesses. I am looking forward to showing off our city and our seafood industry during the visit next week.”, said Mayor Theken.

The consumer market in China for U.S. lobsters has increased significantly in recent years. U.S. exports to China rose to 8,560 metric tons (18.9 million pounds) last year, up 22-fold from 2009, U.S. Department of Agriculture data show. This developing consumer market combined with the new direct flights between Boston and China position Gloucester lobster companies for strong opportunities now and in the future.

The delegation announcement follows a series of international and local successes for the city of Gloucester. Recently, Gloucester hosted an executive business delegation representing a dozen countries during the Seafood Expo North America, announced a business partnership between Gloucester Seafood Processing and the Ninety-Nine Pub and Restaurant, and received a White House Rural Council award to support sustainable fishing and economic development. Gloucester was one of 28 communities and the only community in New England to receive the recognition.

The #GloucesterFresh campaign to promote its seafood industry continues make an impact. The campaign utilized digital billboards and a new website to connect industry directly with consumers and businesses. Gloucester continues to be proactive in connecting all local industries, such as the art community and fine dining establishments, with economic development opportunities.

About the City of Gloucester
The nation’s oldest seaport, Gloucester is world-renowned for its seafood industry and its beaches. Its sharp focus on economic development helps build its reputation as the ideal location to live, work, and play. An important center for the fishing industry, Gloucester is also proud of its vibrant cultural life and rich art heritage. The city is a destination for thousands of visitors who visit the harbor and its beaches during.

More Information About Gloucester Fresh: https://gloucesterfresh.com/