Norway’s seasonal Norwegian Skrei fishery is boosting seafood exports and reinforcing sustainable fisheries management as the prized cod returns to European markets.
The Norwegian skrei season runs from January to April, when migrating Arctic cod travel 1,000km from the Barents Sea to northern Norway, where they are caught under strict controls, graded through independent quality systems and exported across Europe to meet strong demand from chefs and seafood buyers.
“The quality should be excellent as always – the standard stands firm,” said Jonnette Braathen of the Skrei Patrol, which operates on behalf of the Norwegian Seafood Council and sales organisation Norges Råfisklag.
“The most important task of the Skrei Patrol is to keep a good dialogue with the producers, enabling them to make the right decisions when they sort the skrei for packaging with the label.”
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In 2025, exports of Norwegian Skrei reached 2,613 tonnes valued at NOK 241 million, with Denmark, Spain and Sweden leading purchases, followed by France and Germany. The figures underline the species’ growing role in premium seafood exports and its reputation for consistency, provenance and traceability.
Skrei, also known as Norwegian winter cod, is harvested within a tightly regulated fisheries management framework that includes catch quotas and rigorous handling standards.
Fish are inspected, chilled rapidly and approved for the official Norwegian Skrei trademark to safeguard origin and quality throughout the supply chain.
Buyers cite sustainability credentials as a key differentiator, as younger consumers increasingly favour responsibly sourced seafood. Industry stakeholders highlight the fishery’s long history and controlled stocks as proof of responsible practice.
With its lean texture, high protein content and culinary versatility, Norwegian Skrei continues its migration beyond the coast, anchoring export growth and strengthening Norway’s position in high-value seafood markets.
