Norwegian seafood exports to China surge as market potential deepens

China has risen to become Norway's second-largest seafood export market for the first time in July, surpassing its previous rank of sixth place last year, according to the Norwegian Seafood Council.

"China has become increasingly crucial for Norwegian seafood exports," said Sigmund Bjørgo, China director of the Norwegian Seafood Council, during the World Seafood Shanghai Exhibition 2025, held from Wednesday to Friday. At the event, the council led eight Norwegian companies showcasing products including Atlantic salmon, coldwater prawns, Greenland halibut and redfish.

According to the council, Norwegian salmon exports to China witnessed an unprecedented growth of 122 percent in the first seven months of 2025, reaching 52,069 tonnes with an export value of 4.67 billion Norwegian kroner (NOK), up 64 percent year-on-year.

"The salmon market in China has grown 42 percent from all exporting countries this year through July. Industry experts initially predicted a 5-10 percent market growth, with my estimate at 6-8 percent, considering last year's 12 percent growth," Bjørgo said. "The actual growth has far exceeded all expectations."

China now ranks as the world's sixth-largest salmon market, leading Asian consumption at roughly double that of Japan, the region's second-largest market.

"Even though salmon is the most famous and popular, we are successfully diversifying our portfolio in the Chinese market," Bjørgo noted. Coldwater prawn exports surged 603 percent to 4,952 tons in the first seven months of 2025, valued at 258 million NOK. Greenland halibut and redfish exports grew by 45 percent and 82 percent respectively.

Responding to this growth, the Norwegian Seafood Council is boosting its investment in the Chinese market. "We are increasing our marketing budget for China by 70 percent for the coming year," Bjørgo revealed. "We allocate resources where we see growth potential, and China's performance clearly warrants this increased investment."

The growth comes amid China's stricter regulations on food safety and sustainable development, which the council welcomes. "We don't see this as a challenge at all. It's positive that China maintains strict food safety regulations, and our standards meet these requirements," Bjørgo said.

According to the director, salmon farming in Norway began over 50 years ago. The country produces more than 50 percent of global Atlantic salmon and has consistently demonstrated superior quality and year-round supply capability.

Looking ahead, the Norwegian Seafood Council plans to focus more on digital consumer engagement and collaboration with Chinese industry partners. "The booster for Norwegian salmon in China is the Chinese importers, factories, and wholesalers developing the market," Bjørgo explained. "It's crucial for us to work closely with them to create win-win situations."

The council maintains an active presence in China's major seafood exhibitions, participating in four different events this year, including the upcoming China International Import Expo, aiming to facilitate business connections between Norwegian exporters and Chinese partners.

"The Chinese salmon market demonstrates strong growth and resilience. Given the evolving consumer habits and diversifying market channels, we remain optimistic about the market's prospects," Bjørgo said. "Norwegian Seafood Council and Norwegian seafood companies will continue expanding investment and deepening cooperation to bring more high-quality salmon and seafood to Chinese consumers."