Russian Cod Roe Successfully Explores Chinese Market

Russian Cod Roe Successfully Enters Chinese Market‌
Chinese buyers will participate for the first time in an April auction in Busan to bid on Russian cod roe, driven by growing interest in this marine “superfood.” The surge in attention stems from a promotional campaign launched last year by the Russian Pollock Catchers Association (PCA).

Diversifying markets remains a key priority for Russia’s fishing industry, especially amid pressure on traditional export destinations. With prices for frozen pollock and fillets declining due to sanctions, PCA is actively exploring new supply routes. Experts suggest cod roe could become a promising export product.

PCA Chairman Alexey Buglak noted that roe accounts for about 18% of the cod industry’s total export revenue. Traditional importers like Japan (56%) and South Korea (42%) have seen stagnant consumption, leading to price pressures. In 2024, cod roe exports totaled approximately 37,000 tons, valued at $194 million—a 21% year-on-year drop compared to 2023 shipments.

Domestic Russian demand is limited, estimated at 3,000 tons of salted bulk roe (used in canned and preserved products). “Non-graded frozen roe for domestic production is priced lower than export-grade. In Asian markets, graded ovarian roe is valued and consumed in diverse forms. Russian fishermen can fully meet domestic needs while expanding into new markets,” Buglak emphasized.

Targeting China’s Growing Appetite‌
Russian pollock harvesters are now eyeing neighboring China, where demand for high-quality natural foods is rising. PCA believes integrating major Chinese buyers could alleviate oversupply and stabilize prices.

“China is one of the fastest-growing and most promising seafood markets,” said Savely Karpukhin, CEO of Russian Fishery Company (RFC). “Influenced by global culinary trends and cultural exchange, Asian consumers are increasingly open to new ingredients and flavors.”

Companies are compelled to seek new markets with production rising and wholesale prices falling. Andrey Buzin, Commercial Director of Okeanrybflot, noted declining roe consumption in Japan and stressed that expanding into China is the logical next step.

From Deep Sea to Superfood Status‌
Cod roe is not yet a mainstream product in China, but it is primarily sold in Japanese restaurants. Most imports go to Japanese-owned factories for processing and re-export to Japan.

To build local demand, PCA launched a campaign last year to position cod roe as a nutrient-rich “superfood,” highlighting its high protein, low fat, and vitamin A, E, and B12 content. PCA members use advanced vessels to ensure international quality standards. “As sustainability gains traction, cod roe holds an eco-friendly edge over other roe types,” Karpukhin added.

However, Buzin emphasized adapting products to Chinese tastes: “Consumers won’t spontaneously learn to eat cod roe. We must demonstrate delicious, healthy, and engaging ways to enjoy it.”

Cracking the Culinary Code‌
PCA believes cod roe can integrate into Chinese cuisine. Versatile formats—canned, dried, vacuum-packed—allow it to be eaten as a snack or used in rice balls, soups, hot pots, and sauces. In 2024, PCA collaborated with Chinese chefs to create fusion dishes, showcased at the Qingdao China International Fishery Expo.

The expo attracted officials and delegates, who responded positively to joint promotion plans with Chinese processors. PCA has begun developing semi-finished and snack prototypes tailored to local preferences.

“PCA aims to make cod roe part of China’s culinary culture,” Buglak stated. Chinese processors have already developed market-specific recipes, confirming the ingredient’s adaptability.

A Long Journey Begins‌
Though early, PCA’s efforts are bearing fruit: Chinese traders and processors will join April’s Busan roe auction (previously limited to Japanese and Korean buyers), with bulk deals expected on April 8-10. PCA calls this a turning point for Far Eastern products and plans to double 2025 exports to China to 1,000 tons.

“We’re just starting a long journey,” said Vladimir Rekasov, CEO of Tralflot. “Past fragmentation hindered exports, but with PCA’s coordination and Chinese partners’ involvement, interest will grow rapidly. China’s vast potential is emerging—Russian producers are ready to meet its demands!”