August 10, 2010

Norwegian seafood exports soar in July

Led by growth in salmon exports, Norway's seafood exports soared by 15% in July, compared to the same month last year, to reach NOK3.8 billion (US$638 million).

In addition, the Norwegian Seafood Export Council (NSEC) reported that Norwegian salmon exports rose 26% to reach NOK2.7 billion (US$453 million).

NSEC analysts said that in July, Norwegian salmon accounted for no less than 71% of all seafood exports from Norway. One reason for this is the relative consistency of Norwegian salmon exports throughout the year, whereas exports from fishing generally are more seasonal, analysts said.

US had the largest increase in Norwegian salmon imports in July, rising 67% to NOK220 million (US$36.9 million). This is attributable to strong growth in exports of Norwegian salmon fillets to the US.
 

Norwegian salmon exports to France rose 10% in July, compared to July 2009, to NOK382 million (US$64 million). Exports to Russia increased by 46% in July, to reach NOK259 million (US$43.5 million).

Norwegian salmon prices also rose in July, compared to June, reaching NOK39.50 (US$6.63) per kilogramme. For the year to date, the average price for fresh whole Norwegian salmon stands at NOK36.14 (US$6) per kilogramme, up by NOK4.43, compared to the same period last year, according to reports.

Cod also contributed to July's growth in exports, according to the NSEC. Frozen whole and filleted cod exports increased 26% to NOK143 million (US$24 million). The value of frozen Norwegian cod products for the year to date shows an increase of 32% to a total of NOK814 million (US$137 million), compared to the same period last year, according to NSEC.