RESILIENT TIES: NORWAY–UK SEAFOOD TRADE GROWS IN 2025

Resilient ties: Norway–UK seafood trade grows in 2025. Read Fish Focus latest publication focusing on Seafood from Norway.

Norwegian seafood exports to the UK grew in the first half of 2025, reflecting a resilient bilateral relationship and continued confidence in the quality of Norwegian seafood.

The UK continues to be one of Norway’s most important seafood export markets. Despite global trade challenges, exports maintained positive momentum in early 2025. The UK ranked as the top
destination for Norwegian frozen cod and remained the leading market for haddock.

While cost pressures and shifting consumer sentiment have shaped the market this year, trust in Norwegian whitefish remains strong. June saw growth in UK imports of both cod and haddock, underscoring the resilience of this long-standing trade partnership.

Reflecting on the market dynamics, Victoria Braathen, UK Director at the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), noted:

“The whitefish sector has been affected by reduced quotas and increased prices throughout the spring. A significant proportion of Norwegian frozen cod and haddock is exported to the UK.

“Despite higher costs and continued consumer restraint, it is positive that Norwegian seafood maintains a strong market position in the UK.”

In the first half of 2025, the UK ranked as Norway’s fifth largest seafood export market by value, and the third fastest growing market.

“Growth in export value to key markets such as the US, China, and the UK confirms the strong global confidence in Norwegian seafood,” said Christian Chramer, CEO of the NSC. “The first half of the year demonstrates the strength of Norwegian seafood exports, even amid challenging market conditions and rising trade barriers.”

Celebrating fish and chips In June, Seafood from Norway proudly supported the annual UK National Fish & Chip Day (NF&CD), which this year celebrated its 10th anniversary. To mark this significant milestone, the National Edible Oil Distributors’ Association (NEODA) hosted a roadshow at London’s Trinity House, where the public were invited to enjoy free fish and chips and take part in the festivities to honour the most iconic British dish.