October 2023 marked a particularly noteworthy month for Norway. Seafood exports reached a staggering NOK 18.5 billion (USD 1.69 billion), an impressive increase of NOK 914 million (USD 83.44 million), or five percent, compared to the same month last year. This remarkable figure was largely underpinned by unprecedented mackerel exports, but the shrimp segment brought its own share of excitement with a significant leap in both volume and value.

A Shrimp Boom

The shrimp sector experienced a noticeable surge, with Norway exporting 3,776 tons valued at NOK 183 million (USD 16.71 million) in October. This represents an extraordinary value increase of NOK 83 million (USD 7.57 million), or 82 percent, relative to October 2022. The volume growth was equally impressive at 126 percent, showcasing the robustness of Norway’s shrimp fishery.

Christian Chramer, CEO of the Norwegian Seafood Council, emphasizes the strength of Norway’s seafood industry, but it is Josefine Voraa—with her helm at the Shellfish division—who elaborates on the specifics of the shrimp ascent. Increased landings in the Barents Sea, combined with a strong performance from frozen industrial prawns and cooked shell prawns, have collectively driven this growth.

Key Markets for Shrimp

Denmark, the UK, and Iceland emerged as the primary markets for Norwegian shrimp in October. The figures tell a story of increasing demand; prepared shrimp alone saw exports total 1,101 tons, translating into a value of NOK 100 million (USD 9.13 million). This reflects a commendable volume growth of 50 percent and value growth of 51 percent. Notably, the UK and Denmark led this charge, with exports reaching 380 tons and 242 tons, respectively.

Meanwhile, frozen raw shrimp exports to Iceland also flourished, clocking in at 1,400 tons valued at NOK 27 million (USD 2.47 million). This not only marks a substantial increase in volume but represents a recovery in market share, with 460 tons more than the same month a year prior.

Rising Tides for Frozen, Cooked Shell Shrimp

Additionally, exports of frozen cooked shell shrimp surged, rising to 1,139 tons compared to 401 tons in October 2022. This remarkable 184 percent increase underscores the growing global appetite for this product segment. China and Denmark were the leading recipients during October, importing 355 tons and 350 tons respectively.