The last 12 months have been the best year ever for Norwegian seafood exports with a record 3.1 million tonnes exported in 2021 at a value of NOK 120.8 billion (€12.1 billion).
Records tumbled as the total export volume exceeded three million tonnes for the first time, value year on year increased by 14.3% and December saw its highest export value ever at NOK 12 billion (€1.2 billion).
The chief executive of Norwegian Seafood Council, Renate Larsen, said that seafood exports were in high demand, even in times of crisis. “This has resulted in a growth in demand, record export volumes and a total export value that Norway has never experienced before,” she said.
Solid export records were set for, amongst others, salmon, king crab, snow crab and mackerel, with export values up 13%, 50%, 124% and 18% respectively. Exports of cod, herring, trout and saith also increased in value by 2%, 11%, 5% and 7% respectively.
Helping achieve these figures alongside robust demand is the strong Norwegian krone together with growth in both the aquaculture and fisheries sectors.
However, Ms Larsen urged caution when interpreting growth as increased profitability for all. “Challenges with market access and increased costs related to operations, purchasing and distribution led to lower margins in parts of the industry last year,” she said. “To be able to develop, invest and continue to be a leading seafood nation, the industry needs stable operating frameworks and good market access,” she added.
