Fish and seafood sector

Volume exports were up 35% at 120,000 tonnes. The main driver was the increase in volume and value of blue whiting exports, following very
limited trade in 2024.

The horse mackerel quota increased from a very low level to circa 17,000 tonnes, while export prices also increased. It is important to note that landing prices were higher in 2025, which resulted in significant
challenges for exporters.

Africa remains the largest market for pelagics, accounting for more than 30% of exports with Nigeria, Egypt and Ivory Coast the main destinations in 2025. Nigeria’s currency difficulties created challenging market conditions for Irish exporters. Overall, exports to Africa were more than 40% higher in value and volume, mainly driven by lower-value pelagic species.

The EU was the second largest export market for pelagic species at around €70 million. Volume growth was ahead of value, with key markets being Denmark, Germany, Romania, Spain and Poland. 

The core shellfish markets are in the EU. Italy, France, Spain and the Netherlands dominate the trade, accounting for more than 60% of shellfish exports in both value and volume terms.

However, economic conditions were challenging in these markets. Consumers were more resistant to higher-value proteins, while intense competition from other suppliers impacted on prices and demand. 

There was a strong demand for Irish shellfish across Asia, with value and volume growing by more than 30%. This was largely driven by China, which accounted for more than €35 million of shellfish exports. Thailand, Vietnam, Japan and Singapore are also emerging as key growth
markets, with new listings secured across the region during the year. 

Organic salmon exports increased by 16% in volume terms in 2025. Key markets included France, Poland, Germany and the Netherlands. The French market was challenging; while volumes increased across markets, organic prices were under pressure in response to the increased supply of competitively priced organic salmon from Norway. Outside the EU, exports to Switzerland grew by over 20% to €6 million; exports to the UK also increased.

Demand for Irish whitefish in key export markets was weaker in 2025, although prices improved somewhat. Exports to the EU increased by 10% due to higher unit pricing, while volumes reduced by 11%. Spain, France, and Belgium were the key markets. Exports to Great Britain also grew strongly.