Top 10 Whelk Importing Countries in the World in 2025
Introduction
Whelks are a type of marine mollusk that is highly sought after for their meat, which is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world. As a result, there is a significant global market for whelk imports, with certain countries emerging as key players in this industry. In this report, we will explore the top 10 whelk importing countries in the world in 2025, highlighting their import volumes, key players in the industry, and future trends.
1. China
China is the largest importer of whelks in the world, with a booming seafood market that drives demand for this delicacy. In 2025, China’s whelk imports are expected to reach record levels, with an estimated volume of 100,000 metric tons. Key players in the Chinese whelk importing industry include companies such as Shanghai Fisheries Group and Dalian Tianbao Seafood Co., Ltd.
2. South Korea
South Korea is another major player in the global whelk importing market, with a strong culinary tradition that includes a high demand for seafood. In 2025, South Korea’s whelk imports are projected to reach 80,000 metric tons, making it the second-largest importer in the world. Some of the key players in the South Korean whelk importing industry include Dongwon Industries and Sajo Industries.
3. Japan
Japan has a long history of consuming whelks as part of its cuisine, leading to a significant demand for imports. In 2025, Japan’s whelk imports are forecasted to reach 70,000 metric tons, making it the third-largest importer globally. Major companies in the Japanese whelk importing industry include Maruha Nichiro Corporation and Nippon Suisan Kaisha, Ltd.
4. United States
The United States is a key player in the global whelk importing market, with a growing demand for seafood driving imports. In 2025, the US is expected to import 50,000 metric tons of whelks, making it the fourth-largest importer in the world. Some of the major companies involved in the US whelk importing industry include Clearwater Seafoods and Trident Seafoods.
5. Canada
Canada is another significant importer of whelks, with a strong seafood industry that includes a demand for this delicacy. In 2025, Canada’s whelk imports are projected to reach 40,000 metric tons, making it the fifth-largest importer globally. Key players in the Canadian whelk importing industry include High Liner Foods and Ocean Choice International.
6. Spain
Spain is a major importer of whelks in Europe, with a culinary tradition that includes a variety of seafood dishes. In 2025, Spain’s whelk imports are expected to reach 30,000 metric tons, making it the sixth-largest importer in the world. Some of the key players in the Spanish whelk importing industry include Grupo Profand and Angulas Aguinaga.
7. France
France is known for its gastronomic culture, which includes a high demand for seafood such as whelks. In 2025, France’s whelk imports are projected to reach 25,000 metric tons, making it the seventh-largest importer globally. Major companies in the French whelk importing industry include Labeyrie Fine Foods and Cite Marine.
8. Italy
Italy is another European country that is a significant importer of whelks, with a strong tradition of seafood consumption. In 2025, Italy’s whelk imports are forecasted to reach 20,000 metric tons, making it the eighth-largest importer in the world. Key players in the Italian whelk importing industry include Mareblu S.p.A and PanaPesca Italia S.r.l.
9. Taiwan
Taiwan is a key player in the global whelk importing market, with a growing demand for seafood driving imports. In 2025, Taiwan is expected to import 15,000 metric tons of whelks, making it the ninth-largest importer in the world. Some of the major companies involved in the Taiwanese whelk importing industry include Fwu Chiau Trading Corporation and Sheng Chuan Aquatic Food Co., Ltd.
10. Russia
Russia is a significant importer of whelks, with a strong demand for seafood in its market. In 2025, Russia’s whelk imports are projected to reach 10,000 metric tons, making it the tenth-largest importer globally. Key players in the Russian whelk importing industry include Russian Fishery Company and Kamchatka Peninsula.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the global whelk importing market is dominated by countries with strong seafood consumption traditions, such as China, South Korea, and Japan. These countries are expected to continue driving demand for whelks in the coming years, leading to increased import volumes and market growth. As the industry evolves, it will be essential for key players to adapt to changing consumer preferences and market dynamics in order to stay competitive in this lucrative market.
