North American markets and China were the fastest-growing buyers of Irish seafood exports in the first half of 2025, according to data from Bord Bia, the Irish government's food export promotion agency.
North American markets purchases of Irish seafood increased by 208 percent year over year by value to EUR 7.4 million (USD 8.7 million), and increased 460 percent by volume to 2,600 metric tons (MT) in the period.
Irish seafood sales to North America have been driven by strong demand for premium seafood products, according to Bord Bia Seafood Sector Manager Karen Devereux.
Chinese purchases in H1 2025 rose 113 percent by value to EUR 31.1 million (USD 36.3 million) and 268 percent by volume to 7,750 MT compared to the same period last year.
Growth in Irish seafood shipments reflects favorable currency trends and a heavy focus on securing Chinese market share, including efforts made by Bord Bia itself, according to Devereux.
“Through sustained investment in trade engagement, promotional campaigns, chef collaborations, and trade shows, Bord Bia has worked with industry to raise awareness of Irish seafood and strengthen its position in priority markets. Irish seafood companies have been proactive in targeting Asia, with a particular emphasis on China,” she said. “Currency movements between EUR and RMB have also supported returns, and higher unit prices for pelagic fish in international markets are also reflected in the overall export performance.”
According to Devereux, Chinese “demand for high-value seafood, particularly shellfish, continues to be underpinned by consumer preferences for safe, nutritious and premium-quality food.”
“The recovery of tourism, catering, and banqueting in China – particularly in coastal and first tier cities – has further supported demand for imported seafood,” she said. “Evolving distribution channels, including the rapid growth of online fresh food sales and expansion of premium retail, have also created new opportunities for Irish exporters.”
Shipments to the E.U., meanwhile, also increased but grew at a slower pace.
Ireland shipped EUR 230 million (USD 269 million) worth of seafood in the six-month period to its fellow E.U. members, marking an increase of 6 percent on the same period last year. The volume of the country’s seafood shipments to these markets grew by 19.4 percent to 49,700 MT.
“While volumes have increased more strongly than prices, several factors have contributed positively to export values,” Devereux said.
