A total of 2.8 million tons of Norwegian seafood worth NOK 175.4 billion was exported in 2024, best year ever for Norwegian seafood exports.
This corresponds to 38 million meals every single day – all year round. Paul T. Aandahl, Seafood Analyst at the Norwegian Seafood Council, noted that “the US was the largest growth market for both fresh and frozen salmon fillets, with export value to the US increasing by NOK 99 million ($8.9 million), or 11%, compared to the same period last year.” This rise reflects broader economic trends, with the US showing increases in GDP, real wages, and household consumption in the third quarter.
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Global popularity
While seafood remains a cornerstone of Norwegian exports, it’s less popular on home dinner tables, where red meat consumption outpaces fish nearly threefold.
“2024 was characterized by quota cuts for cod, significant production challenges for salmon, geopolitical fluctuations and economic turmoil in the global market. When the value of seafood exports nevertheless rises to a historically high level, it is incredibly strong,” says Christian Chramer, CEO of the Norwegian Seafood Council.
Poland and the Netherlands remained the largest European destinations for Norwegian salmon, absorbing a substantial portion of Norway’s total exports. Exports to Poland continued to rise in value as Norwegian suppliers catered to growing demand for processed and fresh salmon products.
China emerged as the largest growth market, with exports increasing by NOK 886 million (+10%), driven by demand for salmon and mackerel. Thailand and Vietnam also saw notable growth, with export values rising by 13% and 20%, respectively. The Norwegian Seafood Council is working to boost local consumption through campaigns promoting quick and versatile dishes like sushi and poke bowls. The success of Norwegian sea food abroad underscores its global reputation, with Asia leading the way in 2024.
Consumer willingness to pay a premium for Norwegian seafood
“Once again, Norwegian seafood exports have set new records, and I am impressed by everyone who has contributed. The Norwegian seafood trade is a fantastic example of how sustainability can be combined with economic value creation,” says Marianne Sivertsen Næss, Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Policy.
“Economic conditions in the EU continue to support demand for Norwegian salmon, with record-low unemployment and real wage growth driving household consumption,” said Chramer. “These factors are increasing purchasing power and supporting consumer willingness to pay a premium for Norwegian seafood.”
“Norwegian seafood exports have experienced marvellous growth. In the period from 2020 to 2024 alone, the value increased by around NOK 70 billion. This shows what a strong global position our seafood has. Last year, we exported more than 60 different species to over 150 countries around the world,” he adds.
Best Year Ever for Norwegian Seafood Exports, Tor Kjolberg reporting based on press releases from the Norwegian Seafood Council.