For immediate release
PRESS RELEASE
Favorable conditions support a strong lobster price
for fish harvesters this spring
Moncton, April 14, 2026 — The Maritime Fishermen’s Union (MFU) notes that market conditions are particularly favorable this spring and should translate into a strong price paid to lobster fish harvesters, reflecting current industry realities.
According to the MFU, the exchange rate is currently working in fish harvester’s favor, as is the strong demand for Maritime lobster in the marketplace. This is further supported by the absence, this year, of threats related to the imposition of trade tariffs.
“Our lobster is in high demand this year. The exchange rate is favorable, and most importantly, we are no longer facing the threat of tariffs. All market signals indicate that the value of our product is strong,” said Réjean Comeau, President of the Maritime Fishermen’s Union.
The MFU also points out that overall lobster landings have been declining for about three years, a structural trend that is helping support market prices. Contrary to some perceptions, Asian spiny lobster cannot replace Maritime lobster, either in terms of quality or reputation.
In addition, weather conditions suggest a slower pace of landings this spring, particularly due to a colder-than-normal season.
“Overall landings have been declining for about three years. With the impacts of climate change and strong demand for our resource, the market will be favorable for our members,” explained Martin Mallet, Executive Director of the MFU.
In this context, the Maritime Fishermen’s Union stresses that the shore price must also reflect fish harvesters’ economic reality. Operating costs have doubled since the pandemic, including fuel, equipment, insurance, maintenance, and labour.
“Operating costs have doubled since the pandemic, and lobster prices must reflect this reality. A price between $9.00 and $10.00 per pound is justified and necessary to ensure the viability of fishing enterprises,” added Réjean Comeau.
The MFU reiterates that Maritime fishermen offer a premium-quality product, harvested responsibly and sustainably, and that value creation throughout the supply chain must begin with a fair price at the wharf.
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