Chinese consumers snap up South Australian lobster

In the last 12 months, more South Australian Rock Lobster has been sold to the world than in any other 12-month period.

According to latest trade data, South Australian lobster exports have more than doubled over the past year to $94.7 million – an increase of $54.6 million or 136%.

China, South Australia’s top lobster export market, bought more than $64 million worth of the premium seafood in just eight months, with trade restrictions having only lifted in late December last year. 

In July 2024, the South Australian Government launched the $475,000 Seafood Export Growth Program to support the seafood industry.

The program has supported 27 seafood businesses to access trade advisers and meet with key buyers in South Australia and at international trade events.

South Australia’s seafood exports are now approaching a quarter of a billion dollars, increasing by nearly $100 million or more than 60% in the past year.

Japan remains South Australia’s largest seafood export market, growing nearly 90% or $55.6 million to $118.8 million. China moved up to second place, growing more than fivefold to $76.1 million – up 425%.