B.C. Manila Clam Exports Soar in Europe 

Key Points:

Why are B.C. Manila clams attracting growing attention from European seafood buyers?

British Columbia’s (B.C.) Manila clam industry is experiencing rapid export growth as demand from Spain, Italy and other international markets increases, driven by the product’s quality, reliability and strong reputation.

• Exports of live B.C. clam products to Spain rose from $2.17 million in 2023 to $12.05 million in 2025.
• Exports to Italy increased from $9,721 in 2023 to $5.71 million in 2025.
• Trade and Invest BC representatives reported strong buyer interest in B.C. Manila clams during Seafood Expo Global in April.

B.C. Clam Exports Surge in Spain and Italy

British Columbia’s clam industry is enjoying significant momentum as demand from Europe continues to expand. Spain and Italy have become important destinations for B.C. clam products, creating new opportunities for B.C. seafood exporters and European buyers.

Exports of all B.C. clam products to Spain increased from $2.17 million in 2023 to $8.29 million in 2024, before rising to $12.05 million in 2025. Italy also delivered impressive gains. Exports climbed from $9,721 in 2023 to $3.56 million in 2024 and reached $5.71 million in 2025.

Growth extended beyond these two markets. B.C.’s exports of live clam products to all countries rose from $10.50 million in 2023 to $19.23 million in 2024 and then increased to $25.18 million in 2025.

The results demonstrate growing international demand for British Columbia shellfish and increasing confidence in the province as a dependable source of premium seafood.

B.C. Manila Clams Capture International Attention

The Manila clam is one of British Columbia’s signature shellfish products and a major contributor to the sector’s success.

Interestingly, Manila clams are not actually from Manila, despite what their name may suggest. The species, Ruditapes philippinarum, is native to parts of Asia and was introduced to British Columbia in the 1930s through shipments of Pacific oyster seed. Today, it is widely established along the B.C. coast and supports both commercial harvest and aquaculture production.

B.C.’s productive coastal ecosystems and tidal environment provide favourable conditions for shellfish production. B.C. Manila clams are valued for their sweet flavour, tender texture and versatility in a variety of culinary applications.

Spain and Italy Strengthen Demand

The strong growth in Spain highlights the increasing appeal of B.C. clams in one of Europe’s most sophisticated seafood markets. Spanish consumers have a long tradition of enjoying shellfish and buyers recognize the value of dependable supply and consistent quality.

Italy has also emerged as a fast-growing market. Clams play an important role in many Italian seafood dishes, making premium imported shellfish an attractive option for distributors, retailers and food service operators.

The rapid expansion of exports to both countries suggests that more European buyers are discovering the advantages of sourcing clam products from British Columbia.

Seafood Expo Global Highlights Buyer Interest

Growing demand was on display at Seafood Expo Global (SEG) in April 2026, where Trade and Invest BC representatives supported buyers and industry connections throughout the conference.

The event generated significant interest in B.C. Manila clams. Buyers were eager to learn more about supply opportunities, product quality and the advantages of sourcing seafood from British Columbia. The conversations and connections made during SEG reflected the growing recognition of B.C. shellfish among international seafood professionals.

B.C.’s Reputation Supports Future Growth

British Columbia’s seafood sector is recognized internationally for its focus on quality, food safety, traceability and sustainability. The Government of British Columbia notes that these practices are key strengths of the sector and contribute to its reputation for reliable, high-quality seafood products.

As global demand for premium shellfish continues to grow, B.C. Manila clams are well positioned to build on their recent success and expand their presence in international markets.

Learn More About Importing B.C. Seafood

With exports of all clam products reaching $25 million worldwide in 2025, British Columbia’s clam industry is demonstrating strong momentum and growing international appeal.

If you are interested in learning more about B.C. Manila clams or other seafood products available for import, contact Trade and Invest BC.