The 2024 season elver season is coming to a close, but with the end of the season comes an important change in the eel market: Prices continue to be bullish. The past fishing season saw a significant decline in elver catches in East Asia, which has had a profound impact on the eel market.
According to data from Japan Farming News, as of April 26, the combined eel fry catch in East Asia was 33,750 kilograms, down 24% from the same period last year. China caught 24,200 kilograms, Taiwan 1,300 kilograms, Japan 6,850 kilograms and South Korea 1,400 kilograms. Such figures show that there is a relative shortage of supply of elver, while market demand for eel remains strong.
Eel is popular among consumers as a popular ingredient. In Asia, eel is often made into delicious dishes and is widely sought after by consumers. However, the supply of eels on the market has come under some pressure due to poor eel fry harvests, which has directly contributed to the continued rise in eel prices.
At the same time, the cost of eel farming is also rising. Feed costs, fishing costs and other factors are driving up the cost of eel production, which makes the price of eel in the market more and more bullish. Consumers may have to face higher purchasing costs, while food and beverage companies need to manage their costs well to adapt to changes in market prices.
For farmers and fishers, this is a challenge and an opportunity. They need to plan their production and fishing schedules wisely and capitalize on the changes in the market with a view to obtaining better economic benefits.
All in all, the situation of continued bullish eel prices will persist for some time to come. This is an important change for the whole eel industry chain, and reminds all parties in the market to pay close attention to the market dynamics and make corresponding business adjustments and decisions.