Mackerel has become a trendy food item in Japan and South Korea, and there is a preference for Norwegian fish in these markets, according to Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC) representative Gunvar L. Wie.
Last year, Norway exported 90,000 metric tons (MT) of mackerel worth around NOK 1.5 billion (USD 176.9 million, EUR 155.3 million) to Japan and South Korea. Norway currently provides around 90 percent of the mackerel imported by the two countries.
Wie said the “mackerel boom” is partly driven by increased attention in both markets on health, sustainability, and product origin. At the same time, consumers are seeking ready-to-eat convenient foods, which has led to a large increase in demand and supply for mackerel products, including pre-marinated, boneless and ready-to-cook offerings.
“The Norwegian mackerel is known to be extra-large and juicy. In addition, seafood from Norway has a very good reputation,” he said. “Several retail chains expect increased mackerel turnover in the years to come.
The product’s popularity, already on the rise, will likely continue to increase, he added.
“People on the move want healthy, fast food, and mackerel is a popular choice,” said Wie. “It has almost become as common as [hot dogs] in Norway.”
The NSC is also focused on developing the pelagic market in China this year. In 2018, Norway exported 41,000 MT to the country, but much of this was processed and re-exported to other markets.
