Norway exported seafood worth NOK 13.8 billion (€1.23 billion) in February, a decrease 2% compared with the same month last year.
The decline reflects weaker wild-catch volumes and a sharp fall in exports to the US, despite continued growth in farmed salmon.
“Lower supplies of shellfish and wild-caught fish due to quota reductions, combined with a still troubled world and trade barriers, are affecting the market more strongly than before,” explained Christian Chramer, chief executive of the Norwegian Seafood Council.
“The start of this year has therefore been more demanding than last year,” he added.
In the first two months of the year, total seafood exports reached NOK 28.5 billion (€2.54 billion), down 2.7%, compared with the same period in 2025. While export values measured in euros and dollars increased, a strengthening Norwegian krone reduced the value when measured in local currency.
Wild fish volumes fell significantly in February. Fresh wild cod exports were the lowest for the month since 2009, while mackerel volumes more than halved year-on-year. Overall fisheries exports dropped 13% to NOK 3.86 billion (€340 million), creating pressure for the onshore industry.
By contrast, aquaculture exports increased to NOK 9.96 billion (€890 million), accounting for 72% of total seafood exports. Salmon shipments reached 97,463 tonnes worth NOK 9.4 billion (€840 million), up 10% in volume and 5% in value.
China delivered the strongest growth, with export value rising 54% compared with last year. Exports to the US fell 36% to NOK 1 billion, driven largely by lower fresh salmon fillet sales. Europe remained stable at NOK 8.6 billion (€770 million), helping offset weaker US demand.
