Heavier salmon may weigh down prices

The improved health and size of Norwegian farmed salmon is likely to lead to a further drop in already-weak prices, although there may be exceptions in some segments, according to an industry analyst.

Exports of Norwegian salmon remain strong, but processing hubs have reduced purchases in recent weeks, Kontali analyst Filip Szczesny said in a weekly update from the company.

Instead, more whole fish is being directed toward direct consumption markets, such as Southern Europe. 

As the weakened 2023 generation is phased out, a stronger, heavier 2024 stock is set to take its place - a shift that could reshape prices in the weeks ahead, said Szczesny.