Blue Sea Fishery's frozen giant squid fillets are processed through a meticulous and standardized workflow, primarily centered in regions like Rongcheng, Shandong Province, which is a major squid processing hub. The process involves several key steps:

Raw Material Handling: Giant squid, often sourced from South American waters (e.g., Argentine shortfin squid), are typically frozen at sea immediately after capture to preserve freshness ("ship freezing") . Upon arrival at processing facilities, they undergo rigorous inspection for quality and size grading.

Preprocessing:

Cleaning & Evisceration: Squid are washed in automated systems to remove debris, then manually or mechanically gutted to remove internal organs and cartilage 

Skinning & Trimming: The outer membrane is peeled off, and excess fat or damaged portions are trimmed. For sushi-grade products, precision cutting ensures uniform thickness and texture

Quick Freezing: Fillets are flash-frozen at temperatures below -18°C to lock in moisture and nutrients, ensuring a shelf life of up to 48 months .

Packaging: Products are individually quick-frozen (IQF) or bulk-packed in vacuum-sealed bags/boxes, labeled with traceability codes and export compliance certifications (e.g., HACCP, FDA, BRC) 

Quality Assurance: Facilities implement strict HACCP protocols, including metal detection, microbial testing, and cold chain monitoring. Customs authorities like Rongcheng Customs expedite clearance for perishable goods through "green channels" 

Export Countries

China's frozen giant squid fillets are exported to over 50 countries and regions, with the following key markets:

East Asia:

Japan: High-demand for sushi-grade fillets, valued at ¥61 million in 2024 from Rongcheng alone

South Korea: Major importer of both raw and seasoned products, used in stir-fries and street food .

Southeast Asia:

Thailand, Vietnam, Malaysia: Serve as ingredients for local cuisines and seafood processing industries

Oceania:

Australia: A top market for premium IQF fillets, with Rongcheng supplying 98.7% of China’s RV exports (parallel industry) and significant seafood trade 

Europe:

Spain, Italy, UK: Recent expansions include UK market entry in March 2025, driven by demand for ready-to-cook products . EU imports grew 88% in 2024 due to supply shortages in other regions .

North America:

USA, Canada: Import fillets for retail chains and food service, with value-added products like breaded squid rings gaining popularity.

Middle East & Africa:

UAE, Saudi Arabia: Source bulk frozen fillets for hospitality sectors and local distribution.

Market Dynamics

Trade Volume: In 2024, Rongcheng’s processing enterprises exported 60,500 tons of simple-processed squid products worth ¥1.69 billion, with premium items like sushi-grade fillets growing rapidly

Competitive Edge: China’s advantage lies in cost-effective processing, strict quality controls, and strategic partnerships with global retailers. Blue Sea Fishery supplies major European and USA supermarket chains with high quality products

Challenges: Rising raw material costs (e.g., Argentine squid prices up 15% in 2025) and EU’s IUU fishing regulations require continuous supply chain transparency .

This integrated approach of advanced processing and diversified export strategies solidifies China’s position as a global leader in frozen giant squid products.

Giant squid, china giant squid fillets supplier, giant squid producer, giant squid exporter, squid manufacturer, seafoods supplier, giant squid tubes, giant squid rings, giant squid flowers, giant squid fillets