China climbs to second place among Norway’s seafood export destinations

CHINA – China has moved into the second spot among Norway’s seafood export markets in July, rising from sixth position in the same month last year, according to the Norwegian Seafood Council.

Speaking at the World Seafood Shanghai Exhibition 2025, the council’s China director Sigmund Bjørgo said that the country has become an increasingly central destination for Norwegian seafood.

Eight companies from Norway took part in the exhibition, presenting a range of products that included Atlantic salmon, coldwater prawns, Greenland halibut, and redfish.

Data from the council shows that salmon exports to China surged by 122 percent in the first seven months of 2025, reaching 52,069 tonnes valued at US$463.8 million (NOK4.67 billion), a 64 percent rise compared to the previous year.

Bjørgo noted that the salmon market in China expanded by 42 percent during the same period across all supplying countries, well above industry forecasts of 5 to 10 percent growth.

China now ranks as the sixth-largest salmon market globally, and its consumption level is roughly twice that of Japan, which is Asia’s second-largest salmon market.

Diversifying seafood exports

While salmon continues to dominate, Norwegian exporters have also recorded significant gains in other seafood categories in China.

Exports of coldwater prawns rose by 603 percent to 4,952 tonnes between January and July, with a value of US$25.62 million (NOK258 million).

During the same period, Greenland halibut exports climbed by 45 percent, while redfish shipments advanced by 82 percent.

In response to this rapid growth, the Norwegian Seafood Council plans to raise its marketing budget for China by 70 percent in the coming year, directing more resources to markets showing strong potential.

Bjørgo said that China’s strict requirements on food safety and sustainability align well with Norway’s standards, which have been developed over more than 50 years of salmon farming.

Norway currently produces over half of the world’s Atlantic salmon, maintaining a year-round supply that has allowed it to meet demand in China and other international markets.

Strengthening industry ties

Looking ahead, the council intends to expand digital consumer engagement and strengthen cooperation with Chinese importers, processors, and wholesalers to support further market development.

The Norwegian Seafood Council is also maintaining a visible role in Chinese trade shows, with participation in four major exhibitions this year, including the upcoming China International Import Expo.

Bjørgo said that the Chinese market for salmon is demonstrating strong growth and adaptability, and Norwegian companies will continue building partnerships to supply more seafood to local consumers.

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