Norwegian seafood exports hold steady
Norway’s seafood exports remained virtually unchanged in October as record salmon sales offset declining wild-caught fish exports
Norway exported seafood worth NOK 18.2 billion (€1.75 billion) in October, representing a marginal decline of NOK 48 million (€4.63 million) compared with the same month last year, according to the Norwegian Seafood Council.
The near-static result reflected contrasting performances across the industry, with salmon exports reaching an all-time high while lower volumes of wild-caught species, particularly cod, mackerel and haddock, affected overall trade. A stronger Norwegian krone also reduced the value of exports when converted into the national currency.
Christian Chramer, chief executive of the Norwegian Seafood Council, said: “Norwegian seafood exports developed in different directions in October. While the export value of salmon reached an all-time high, both export volumes and values declined for wild-caught species such as cod, mackerel and haddock.”
Farmed fish accounted for NOK 13.8 billion (€1.33 billion) of October’s exports, representing 76% of total value, compared with 72% in the same month last year. Increased salmon exports, alongside reduced cod and mackerel shipments, contributed to the higher share.
Paul T. Aandahl, market analyst at the Council, highlighted strong demand for Norwegian salmon, with increased volumes and higher prices in local currencies supporting export performance.
Cumulative seafood exports reached NOK 151.3 billion (€14.58 billion) during the first ten months of 2026, an increase of 1% compared with the corresponding period last year.
Poland remained Norway’s largest seafood export market in October, receiving products worth NOK 2.75 billion (€260 million), up 13%. The US ranked second at NOK 1.2 billion (€120 million), down 11%, followed by China at NOK 1.16 billion (€110 million), up 12%.
The UK was seventh among the largest markets, with imports valued at NOK 903 million (€87 million), unchanged year on year.
The Council also highlighted continuing challenges for processors, as reduced quotas for several wild-caught species have restricted raw material availability despite higher export prices.
