Iceland’s Mackerel Boom: Nearly 250 Million Euro in Exports

This summer, Icelandic mackerel prices have almost doubled compared to last year, now hovering around USD 2.90 per kilo.

That surge, combined with limited foreign stock and strong global demand, is expected to push export revenues to nearly 38 billion ISK (approximately 250 million EUR) in 2025. This, according to Icelandic media outlet Fiskifréttir.

The season began slowly, but quickly gained pace thanks to efficient vessels, top-tier equipment, and skilled crews. As a result, Iceland’s fishing industry has delivered an exceptionally successful harvest.

Global Appetite Expands

Icelandic mackerel, which was once shipped mainly to Eastern Europe and West Africa, is now in high demand from Asia and major European processors. The world’s buyers are eager and, in many cases, already securing long-term supply contracts.

Being the first to hit global markets this season has played in Iceland’s favour. Competitors like the Faroe Islands and Norway follow suit, but Iceland gets early attention.

This timing advantage helps explain why its mackerel continues to fetch premium prices.