Chinese demand for U.S. lobsters is at an all-time high. (Photo/Screenshot from CGTN)
Chinese demand for U.S. lobsters is at an all-time high. The market for live or processed U.S. lobsters is now 54 times larger than almost a decade ago.
The new market has led to more stability for U.S. lobstermen and changes in the way they handle their catch.
Emily Lane, who manages the Vinalhaven Fishermen's Co-Op, has been actively involved in marketing Maine lobster to China. She says demand is mainly for live lobsters, not processed ones. This has forced lobstermen to handle their catch with a softer touch.
Chinese diners pay between 50 and 100 dollars for a live Maine lobster ordered in a restaurant.
It's a price more Chinese consumers are willing to fork over for a bite of the crustacean, which bodes well for Maine's lobstermen.
