I recently returned from the China Fisheries & Seafood Expo (CFSE) in Qingdao, one of the world’s largest and most influential seafood trade events. Indeed, CFSE brings together over 40,000 professionals from 120+ countries, with 1,680 exhibitors from 51 nations. Spanning 48,000 square meters, CFSE provides a vital platform for global networking, seafood industry collaboration, and insights into market trends—especially crucial as the seafood industry prepares for the significant regulatory changes of FSMA 204.
The experience wasn’t just about business—it was a vibrant cultural immersion. From amazing dinners with suppliers to unique regional dishes, the quality and freshness of the food were unmatched. Furthermore, unlike other trade shows, CFSE fosters a culture of fast-paced decision-making. I even watched a friend, Diego, close a $250 million deal over dinner. Congratulations to him!
Why FSMA 204 Matters
Amidst CFSE’s excitement, one thing became clear: the seafood industry is approaching major change with the introduction of FSMA 204 in January 2026. This regulation mandates stricter requirements for tracking critical events and data across the supply chain to enhance traceability and safety. Compliance with FSMA 204 isn’t optional; it’s essential for maintaining market access and building buyer trust.
Preparing Your Supply Chain for FSMA 204
At the show, I spent time preparing suppliers and discussing the operational impact of FSMA 204. Compliance isn’t just about one company—it’s about ensuring the entire supply chain is ready. Seafood supply chains are complex, so non-compliance at any stage can affect the entire process.
At True Grade, we’re committed to guiding our partners through these changes. We’re working closely with global suppliers to integrate Wholechain, a traceability system that keeps us compliant and simplifies the process for everyone involved. Using Wholechain, developed with the GS1 Data Framework, we ensure that True Grade and its partners can meet all requirements, driving transparency and value across the supply chain.
Steps to Ensure FSMA 204 Compliance
- Understand the Requirements: Familiarize yourself with FSMA 204, which mandates tracking critical events (CTEs) and key data elements (KDEs). Understanding what needs to be tracked at each stage of your supply chain is crucial.
- Assess Your Traceability Systems: Review your traceability practices to identify any gaps. Determine if you can capture necessary data and track product movement accurately.
- Implement a Traceability Solution: If your system lacks coverage, consider adopting a platform like Wholechain. Which enables standardized data collection, making compliance with FSMA 204 and other traceability standards easier.
- Engage Supply Chain Partners: Compliance requires collaboration. Therefore, communicate with suppliers to ensure they’re prepared to meet these new traceability requirements.
- Provide Training and Support: Educate teams and supply chain partners on the regulation and new traceability processes. Training ensures everyone understands their role in maintaining compliance.
Count on True Grade for Support
Preparing for a regulatory shift like FSMA 204 can feel overwhelming, but True Grade is here to help suppliers and partners stay compliant. With our expertise in traceability and supply chain management, we’re dedicated to keeping your business ahead of the curve. For customers, products sourced from True Grade will already meet FSMA 204 standards, making it easier to fulfill regulatory obligations.
If you’re unsure how FSMA 204 impacts your operations or need help integrating Wholechain, reach out to us. Together, we can make the path to compliance smooth.
Stay Connected
Events like the Qingdao Seafood Show highlight the importance of community and collaboration in the industry. It’s inspiring to see leaders, friends, and new partners come together to share knowledge. As we look toward FSMA 204, preparing for compliance will be essential to building strong, reliable supply chains.
If you’re in the food industry, especially seafood, make sure your business and supply chain partners are ready for the future of traceability. True Grade is here to help guide the way.
