Minister Dooley and Bord Bia drive new business development at Seafood Expo Global 2025 in Barcelona
- Published on: 6 May 2025
- Last updated on: 6 May 2025
Minister of State with special responsibility for Fisheries, Timmy Dooley, and Jim O’Toole, Bord Bia CEO, are leading a 21-member contingent of Irish seafood exporters who are showcasing their extensive range of products in the Bord Bia Origin Green Pavilion at the 2025 Seafood Expo Global in Barcelona.
Seafood Expo Global (SEG) is the world’s largest seafood trade fair, featuring more than 2,000 exhibitors from over 87 countries. Irish exhibitor participation is supported by Bord Bia whose Origin Green programme brings together Ireland’s food industry with the common goal of sustainable food production. Bord Bia’s objectives at SEG are to build awareness of Origin Green verified members and drive new business development for the sector.
Speaking at the launch of the Bord Bia trade reception, Minister Dooley said:
“Ireland’s seafood is renowned worldwide as a superior, sustainably produced, quality product underpinned by responsible practices. Irish seafood can be found in all corners of the globe, and the breadth of markets reflects both the rich biodiversity of Ireland’s marine environment and Irish seafood’s first-class reputation.”
In 2024, some 157,000 tonnes of seafood - from salmon and trout to pelagic species and whitefish, and shellfish - was exported to more than 70 export markets. The value of those exports was €598 million, representing an increase of 9% on 2023 exports and reflecting good demand in export markets and a more positive year for production.
Bord Bia CEO Jim O’Toole stated:
“Ireland boasts an extensive product range and a first-class reputation with international seafood buyers. By participating in Bord Bia’s Origin Green Pavilion, Irish seafood suppliers are well-positioned to strengthen their relationships with international customers and uncover new trade leads to support their export business. Trade shows like Seafood Expo Global enable Bord Bia to position Irish seafood producers as the suppliers of choice for international buyers from retail and food service."
Concluding, Minister Dooley said:
“I welcome the opportunity today to acknowledge and raise awareness of Irish producers at SEG. Consumers across the globe are increasingly looking to food producers to help them live more sustainable lives. Bord Bia’s Origin Green programme, and the Irish exporters exhibiting today, are a testament to the integrity of Irish seafood exports and their promotion of sustainable practices. I am confident those sustainable practices will, in turn, support the long-term success of Irelands seafood sector.”
