Exhibiting at Seafood Expo North America 2025

The Virginia Marine Products Board (VMPB) is a governmental organization dedicated to the promotion, education, and development of Virginia’s seafood industry. Headquartered in Newport News, Virginia, the board operates under the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) and serves as the central marketing and advocacy entity for the Commonwealth’s marine products sector. With a focus on domestic and international market expansion, public awareness, and sustainability, VMPB plays a pivotal role in enhancing the global reputation of Virginia seafood.

Organizational Overview

Founded through state legislation to support Virginia’s commercial seafood interests, the Virginia Marine Products Board represents the economic and cultural value of the state’s marine industries. The board collaborates with fishermen, processors, distributors, aquaculture growers, and educators to develop and promote the seafood supply chain.

Virginia ranks as one of the top five seafood-producing states in the U.S., with over 40 commercially important species harvested annually from Chesapeake Bay and the Atlantic Ocean. The board ensures that this production is backed by strong branding, education, and economic research.

Core Programs and Services

The VMPB offers a comprehensive suite of services aimed at enhancing the competitiveness and awareness of Virginia seafood:

1. Seafood Marketing Programs

• Trade Advertising Campaigns targeting domestic and international buyers
• Participation in Global Trade Shows including Seafood Expo North America and Seafood Expo Global
• Direct Marketing and Retail Promotions in collaboration with grocery chains and foodservice operators
• International Video Conferences with seafood importers and chefs
• Marketing Support for Aquaculture Products, especially oysters, clams, and farmed striped bass

2. Educational Programs

• Consumer education on nutritional value, sustainability, and cooking techniques
• Public events and seafood festivals to raise awareness of Virginia’s seafood heritage
• Development of training materials and safety protocols for seafood handlers and processors
• Collaboration with schools and universities on seafood industry curriculum integration

3. Research and Industry Development

• Studies analyzing the economic impact of Virginia’s seafood sector, which contributes over $1 billion annually to the state economy
• Data collection on market trends, species demand, and pricing
• Support for scientific studies on water quality, aquaculture practices, and traceability systems
• Outreach to support emerging sustainable aquaculture operations

Species and Product Focus

The Virginia Marine Products Board supports the promotion of key wild-caught and aquaculture species, including:

• Eastern Oysters (Crassostrea virginica) – both wild and farm-raised
• Hard Clams
• Blue Crabs
• Striped Bass (Rockfish)
• Sea Scallops
• Menhaden
• Flounder, Croaker, Spot, Black Sea Bass, and Other Finfish

Virginia’s oyster aquaculture sector is among the most advanced in the U.S., producing over 40 million oysters annually, with significant exports to Asia, Canada, and the EU.

Stakeholder Collaboration

The VMPB works closely with:

• Virginia Institute of Marine Science (VIMS)
• National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA)
• U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA)
• Virginia Sea Grant
• Local seafood cooperatives and producer associations

This multi-level engagement ensures scientific alignment, regulatory compliance, and strong industry support for marketing and sustainability initiatives.

Marketing Tools and Resources

The board provides resources to assist buyers, chefs, and consumers:

• Virginia Seafood Supplier Directory
• Virginia Aquaculture Oyster Growers Directory
• Digital promotional kits, recipes, and educational materials
• Guidance on regulatory and food safety standards for export and retail

Impact and Recognition

• Virginia's seafood industry supports over 7,000 jobs in harvesting, processing, and distribution
• The state is a national leader in hard clam production and ranks top three in oyster aquaculture
• VMPB initiatives have contributed to a 25% increase in oyster sales over the past five years
• Supported branding efforts such as "Virginia Grown, Virginia Caught" and "Fresh from the Bay"

“Virginia oysters are now a premium item on menus in Hong Kong, Tokyo, and Dubai. The Marine Products Board made that possible through their marketing leadership.” — Seafood Exporter, Norfolk, VA

“Our business grew rapidly after being featured in VMPB’s aquaculture directory. It opened new doors internationally.” — Small Oyster Farm Owner, Rappahannock River

Strategic Vision

Looking forward, the Virginia Marine Products Board is focused on:

• Expanding global market access through digital trade missions
• Supporting the growth of recirculating aquaculture systems (RAS) for species diversification
• Enhancing traceability and food safety through blockchain and smart labeling
• Promoting climate resilience and environmental stewardship in seafood farming

Through proactive leadership, stakeholder partnerships, and innovative outreach, the Virginia Marine Products Board remains a cornerstone institution for the promotion, growth, and sustainability of Virginia’s globally competitive seafood industry.