Norwegian Seafood Exports Experience Record Growth in Early 2025

Substantial Increase Driven by US and Chinese Markets

In a remarkable start to 2025, Norway reported seafood exports worth NOK 44 billion in the first quarter, marking a notable increase of NOK 3.5 billion, or 9%, compared to the same period in the previous year. The boost in export values is attributed to growth in demand, particularly in the United States and China, alongside favorable exchange rates affecting the value of exports in Norwegian kroner.

Key Remarks from Industry Leaders

Christian Chramer, CEO of the Norwegian Seafood Council, highlighted the strong performance across various fish species, particularly salmon, cod, mackerel, and snow crab. “The first quarter has been characterized by increased export volumes for salmon, high prices for cod, mackerel, and snow crab. Furthermore, the Norwegian krone was weaker in the first quarter, which has also helped to increase export values,” he stated.

Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy, Marianne Sivertsen Næss, expressed pride in the accomplishments of the seafood sector, noting, "The world’s huge appetite for Norwegian seafood is clearly reflected in the export figures for the first three months of the year."

Historic Export Values

The figures for the first quarter of 2025 reached an all-time high for the value of seafood exports. Salmon emerged as the dominant species, accounting for NOK 29.5 billion in export value—an increase of 6% compared to 2024. Chramer emphasized the positive developments for Norwegian salmon, citing increased harvest volumes and superior fish quality as key factors driving export success.

US Market Surges Ahead

The US market for Norwegian seafood reached NOK 4.9 billion in exports during the first quarter—an impressive increase of NOK 1.8 billion, or 56%, compared to the same timeframe last year. The US not only emerged as the largest growth market in terms of value but also accounted for 11% of total seafood exports from Norway during this period.

Chramer noted that despite uncertainties surrounding tariff introductions, seafood exports to the US, particularly salmon, snow crab, and king crab, remained robust. He indicated that for the first time, the value of shellfish exports to the US exceeded that to the EU market during a first quarter.

Navigating Global Trade Challenges

Marianne Sivertsen Næss acknowledged the challenges posed by changing trade policies but emphasized a commitment to supporting Norwegian interests in maintaining trade relationships. “Although the industry is adaptable, the situation may be challenging for parts of the Norwegian seafood industry and lead to certain changes in the flow of goods for global seafood trade,” she explained.

Anne-Kristine Øen, the Norwegian Seafood Council's envoy to the USA, reaffirmed the resilience of the seafood sector during this “turbulent period.”

Positive Trends in China

Norwegian seafood exports to China also exhibited promising growth, reaching NOK 2.7 billion—a 37% increase from the previous year. Chramer noted a strong value growth for salmon, cod, redfish, mackerel, and saithe, underlining the significance of the Chinese market for Norwegian seafood exports.

Breakdown of Export Figures

  • Salmon: NOK 29.5 billion, up 6%
  • Cod: NOK 3.5 billion, up 1%
  • Trout: NOK 1.8 billion, up 33%
  • Mackerel: NOK 1.7 billion, up 54%
  • Herring: NOK 1.3 billion, up 12%
  • Others: Including snow crab and king crab, with respective increases of up to 85%.

The top markets for Norwegian seafood in the first quarter were the USA, Poland, and Denmark, with China also playing a significant role. Notably, Norway exported seafood to 138 countries during the quarter, reflecting a diverse global demand.

Conclusion

The first quarter of 2025 stands out as a remarkable period for Norwegian seafood exports, driven by strong demand in key markets. As the industry adapts to global trade challenges, the positive trends observed offer a hopeful outlook for the future of Norway's seafood sector.