The North Sea shrimp market in The Netherlands is experiencing a significant scarcity, driving prices upwards towards EUR 100 per kilogram of peeled gray shrimp. Steven Timmermans, representing Alfa Fish, a prominent fish wholesaler, anticipates further price hikes due to the shortage.

Reasons Behind the Price Surge

The scarcity stems from a limited catch during the typical shrimp season, which spans from August to December. In 2023, the catch was notably diminished, leading to a dearth of frozen stock usually utilized in the spring. Steven Timmermans highlights the resultant supply chain challenges, particularly affecting catering establishments and small retailers across Belgium.

Timmermans foresees the possibility of sporadic empty shelves in supermarkets in the coming months, with the shortage potentially persisting until June. The Belgian Shipowners’ Center corroborates the diminished supply, citing a 75% decrease in 2023 compared to the previous year. Emiel Brouckaert, the center’s director, points to uncertain factors contributing to the reduced catch, including the presence of large schools of young whiting preying on shrimp.

Industry Confirmation

Major stakeholders like the supermarket chain Colruyt affirm the current scarcity, resulting in significantly higher purchase prices. The situation underscores the challenges faced by both suppliers and retailers in meeting consumer demand for this popular seafood item.

Belgium relies heavily on imports from key suppliers such as the Netherlands, Germany, and Denmark, as its own fishing fleet contributes minimally to the market. This regional dependence exacerbates the impact of supply fluctuations on the Belgian shrimp industry.