European surimi and seafood processing giant Viciunai Group has whittled down the list of potential buyers for its Russian and Belarus business to five, following months of negotiations.

The shortlist of five potential buyers -- which are not being named -- are all interested in buying the entire business, said the group, including the operating factory as well as business relationships, brands and the formed structure of employees.

In June, Viciunai said potential buyers of its assets in Russia are insisting on acquiring the business whole, with production lines running at full capacity supported by supplies of raw materials lasting several months.