Seatrade International Co., LLC is a leading seafood processor and exporter based in New Bedford, Massachusetts, one of the most active commercial fishing ports in the United States. With decades of operational history and under the leadership of Robert Blais, the company specializes in the processing and global distribution of premium North Atlantic seafood species, with a particular focus on scallops. Seatrade International is recognized for its commitment to sustainability, product traceability, and quality assurance.
Core Business and Product Offering
Seatrade International operates as both a seafood processor and exporter. The company’s primary product portfolio includes:
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Atlantic Sea Scallops (Placopecten magellanicus)
- Fresh and frozen formats
- Graded to exacting specifications (U10, 10/20, etc.)
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Monkfish (Whole, tails)
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Skate Wing
-
Dogfish (Whole, fillets)
These products are distributed to wholesale seafood buyers, foodservice providers, and retail channels throughout North America, Europe, and Asia. The company operates under its own brand names, including Seatrade and Atlantic Gem Seafoods.
Specialization and USP
Seatrade International has carved out a competitive edge through:
- Specialization in North Atlantic scallops, processed in accordance with rigorous grading and moisture control standards
- Direct access to New Bedford’s fishing fleet, ensuring fast turnaround from catch to processing
- Commitment to sustainable fishing practices, working within quota-managed fisheries
- In-house processing that enables quality control and rapid fulfillment
The company’s strategic location and vertical integration give it a distinct advantage in freshness and logistics efficiency.
Market Presence and Export Performance
Trade records and seafood market data reflect Seatrade’s strong international presence:
- Regular exports to Europe (notably France, Spain, and Italy), Asia (Japan and China), and North America
- Annual seafood export volume estimated at 3,000–5,000 metric tons
- Core contribution to U.S. scallop exports, which reached over $600 million in total trade value in 2022, with Seatrade being among the consistent exporters
- Maintains long-standing relationships with international distributors and specialty importers
Seatrade’s products are often featured in premium seafood retail and culinary channels abroad due to their quality grading and consistency.
Target Market
Seatrade primarily serves:
- International seafood importers and distributors
- High-end foodservice operators and chefs
- Retailers seeking premium, U.S.-origin seafood
- Wholesale buyers in regulated, quota-based markets
Its focus on high-value, wild-caught species appeals to buyers who prioritize traceability, sustainability, and product integrity.
Capabilities
Seatrade operates a processing and cold storage facility in New Bedford with capabilities that include:
- Custom cutting, grading, and freezing of scallops and other species
- Blast and plate freezing for optimal product preservation
- On-site quality assurance teams for microbiological and organoleptic control
- Cold chain logistics ensuring safe and efficient product movement to domestic and international markets
Its vertically integrated model supports both small-batch artisan processing and large-scale commercial orders.
Certifications and Compliance
Seatrade ensures adherence to U.S. and international seafood safety and sustainability standards:
- Compliant with NOAA and NMFS (National Marine Fisheries Service) fisheries management programs
- Participates in FIP (Fishery Improvement Projects) and supports sustainable quotas
- Abides by FDA and HACCP (Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points) food safety regulations
- Meets European Union seafood import requirements, including EUMOFA traceability guidelines
These standards allow the company to maintain access to highly regulated markets such as the EU and Japan.
Industry Reputation and Feedback
While direct testimonials are not widely published, Seatrade International is regarded in the industry for:
- Top-tier scallop quality and moisture control
- Reliable export performance
- Long-term partnerships with fishing vessels and buyers
“Seatrade has been a cornerstone of New Bedford’s seafood export success, known for consistency and their premium scallop offerings.”
— Industry Analyst, U.S. Northeast Seafood Trade Report
Major Achievements
- Recognized as a key scallop exporter from New Bedford, contributing to the port’s #1 ranking in U.S. seafood landings by value
- Developed the Atlantic Gem Seafoods brand as a high-quality label in retail and foodservice channels
- Maintained steady export volumes even during global supply chain disruptions, reflecting strong sourcing and logistics capabilities
- Continues to support sustainable fisheries management and traceability initiatives, contributing to the long-term viability of U.S. scallop stocks
Seatrade International Co., LLC remains a trusted source of wild-caught North Atlantic seafood, combining heritage, quality, and sustainability to serve global buyers seeking premium U.S. seafood products.