Norway exported seafood worth €114.8 million in February, an increase of nearly a third compared with the same period last year.
However, the crisis in Ukraine means that Norway must find other markets for produce previously destined for the country.
“This is the highest value of Norwegian seafood exports ever registered in February,” said Renate Larsen, chief executive of the Norwegian Seafood Council. “However, the war in Ukraine overshadows this. The dramatic situation affects us first and foremost strongly on the human level, but also affects the flow of seafood,” she said.
In February, Norway exported seafood worth €17.9 million to Ukraine. “After Russia’s invasion of the country a week ago, seafood exports to Ukraine have stopped. This means that products such as salmon, trout, herring and mackerel that were to go to this country must now be sold to other markets,” said Renate Larsen also pointing out that sanctions, such as preventing airlines flying over a region, also affect the flow of trade.
Record February
Poland was the largest recipient of Norwegian seafood in February, receiving 21,200 tonnes worth €111.8 million. Fresh cod achieved its highest ever export value during the month and salmon prices were historically high at more than €8.34 per kg.
