Norway promotes salmon to Chinese markets

Producers have launched a nationwide campaign to promote Norwegian salmon for Chinese consumers.

Launched just before the Chinese New Year celebrations, the Norwegian Seafood Export Council has commenced a one-year marketing programme.

Trade and Industry Minister Trond Giske said that the value of Norwegian salmon exports to the Chinese mainland increased by 57% last year. This great result reflects a positive trend in exports from Norway to China in general, an export which increased 40% in 2009 despite the challenging global economic conditions.

China is now Norway's largest trading partner in Asia and the fifth largest trade partner worldwide. Both countries recognise the mutual benefits of free trade and are engaged in talks about the creation of a free trade agreement.

Last year was a record for exports of Norwegian salmon to China. The total exports of salmon from Norway to China and Hong Kong was 23,170 tonnes and had a value of RMB945 million (US$138.4 million).