July 19, 2010

 

Norway records highest growth in seafood export value for H1

In the first half of 2010, Norwegian seafood exports reached the highest export value ever recorded for the period at NOK24 billion (US$3.9 billion), according to the Norwegian Seafood Export Council (NSEC).

 

"A strong increase in exports of Norwegian Salmon, Norwegian Fjord Trout and haddock has contributed to Norwegian seafood exports, achieving the highest growth ever recorded. This positions the seafood industry among the fastest growing sectors in Norway," commented Terje E Martinussen, managing director of NSEC.

 

Exports totalled NOK4.3 billion (US$690 million) last month alone, an increase of NOK913 million (US$147 million) or 27% against June 2009.

 

In the first half-year of this year, the value of salmon exports totalled NOK13.9 billion (US$2.2 billion), up by NOK3.2 billion (US$520 million) or 31% against the same period last year. In June, the value grew by NOK792 million (US$128 million) or 39%.

 

The average price for whole fresh salmon in the first half-year of 2010 was NOK36.15 (US$5.8) versus NOK31.70 (US$5.1) in the same period of 2009. In June, the average price stood at NOK38.52 (US$6.2).

 

Salmon product exports in the first half-year period totalled 279,000 tonnes versus 255,000 tonnes in the same period of 2009. France and Poland are the main importers.

 

"Farming of Norwegian salmon and measures to combat salmon lice have received much media attention in Norway in 2010," said Christian Chramer, director of information with NSEC. "However, to date there has been no negative impact on buying patterns or preference for Norwegian Salmon."