The average U.S. consumer eats approximately 16.3 pounds of
seafood (fish and shellfish) annually. In 2007, the U.S.
consumed almost 5 billion pounds and continues to be ranked as
the world's third largest consumer, behind China and Japan. Many
factors influence both the supply and the demand for seafood. As
major issues continue to be at the forefront, supply and demand
can see dramatic shifts. In June 2007, significant concerns were
raised in regards to the safety of seafood products imported to
the U.S. from China. These concerns resulted in stricter reviews
of imported seafood products such as catfish, shrimp, dace, and
eel. These restrictions have resulted in 17% decrease in volume
in 2008 compared to one year prior. An analysis for the first
quarter of 2008 showed a sharp reduction, as detailed in the
following chart. Currently, the U.S. imports 84% of its seafood
in order to meet current consumer demand — and that demand is
rising, resulting in an increasing foreign trade gap. The
National Offshore Aqu