Norway’s pelagic exports showed mixed trends in March, with strong growth in herring driven by higher volumes, while mackerel exports fell due to limited supply and high prices.
Herring exports reached 27,600 tonnes, up 39% year-on-year. Export value rose 20% to NOK 459 million (approx. EUR 39 million).
By contrast, mackerel exports dropped sharply. Volumes fell 45% to 7,200 tonnes. Export value declined 14% to NOK 370 million (approx. EUR 31 million).
Strong herring season lifts exports
Higher landings of Norwegian spring-spawning (NVG) herring boosted exports. Landings in January and February were 64% higher than a year earlier.
This pushed March exports to a record high. Egypt remained the largest market for frozen whole herring, followed by Morocco and Nigeria.
Morocco stood out with record import volumes, indicating growing demand in new markets.
Mackerel hit by low availability
Mackerel exports were constrained by low supply. Total landings for the 2025/26 season fell 44% compared with the previous season.
Prices rose sharply through late 2025. Since December, prices for frozen whole mackerel have eased slightly but remain high.
South Korea remained the dominant market, though concerns are growing over price levels.
Market shift favours herring
For the first time, Norway exported more herring than mackerel to Japan this year.
The shift reflects both falling mackerel volumes and rising interest in herring as a cheaper alternative.
According to the Norwegian Seafood Council, high mackerel prices and tight supply are pushing buyers towards herring in key markets.