Norwegian seafood exports hit a record half year high

Norway exported 1.3 million metric tons of fish worth 85 billion kroner (£6.2 billion) between January and June with salmon, as usual, leading the charge.

Exports in June were also higher, up by a billion kroner or 9% to NOK 13.2 billion (£960m).

Seafood Council CEO Christian Chramer said: “The first half of the year shows that Norwegian seafood exports are standing strong, even in the face of challenging market conditions and increasing trade barriers.

“The fact that we are seeing growth in export value to key markets such as the USA, China and the UK confirms the high level of confidence in Norwegian seafood products. This underlines the robustness of the value chain and the value of effective market access and seafood companies’ long-term efforts in priority markets.”

Half year salmon exports increased by 3% to NOK 57.8 billion (£4.2 billion) in a period of generally low prices.

In fact the United States, where the threat of tariffs has hung over the industry since January, was the largest market, increasing by 38%.

The value from aquaculture (salmon and trout) totalled NOK 61.9 billion (£4.5bn)  or 73% of total seafood exports measured in value, while in volume it accounts for 50%. The volume growth in aquaculture during the period was 22.7%.

Fisheries and Oceans Minister Marianne Sivertsen Næss said: “In a six-month period marked by unrest and uncertainty, it is particularly gratifying to see that exports of Norwegian seafood are not only stable, but also growing.

“It shows how skilled the industry is at delivering sustainable, high-quality seafood that people all over the world want. I will continue the important work to ensure good framework conditions for the export of Norwegian seafood.”