US consumers buying more farmed trout

Trout sales to North America held up well last month increasing by NOK 11 million (£850,000) or 14% in February. The volume figure was 729 tonnes, which is 17% higher than 12 months ago.

Trout is a big favourite among many Americans, who prefer its milder flavour and less pink colour.

The global picture for trout was not so rosy, however. Overall sales exports 4,557 tonnes of trout and were worth NOK 446 million (£34.5m) in February.

These figures reflected a value decline NOK 117 million (£9m) or 21% and a volume drop of 23%.

With the Ukraine along with Thailand the two other main markets for trout, it has to be assumed that the conflict in Ukraine is having an effect. The kroner has also strengthened which also affects the value of exports.

Fresh farmed cod is now taking on a new importance in the Norwegian aquaculture scene as reduce quotas on the fishing grounds are sharply pushing up prices and affecting exports.

Farmed cod last month accounted for 29% of the export value of fresh cod which increased by 12% to NOK 112 million (£868,000). The total fresh cod volume fell by 3% to 1,45t4 tonnes.

Further quota cuts came into operation for 2026, but there is talk that catch volumes can rise next year. Either way, farmed cod will be playing an increasing role in the overall Norwegian fish farming scene.