Another look into the world of pelagic species show, among other things, that first sale values have increased compared to the same period last year. 

Last month we took a look at the quota recommendations for main pelagic species and how the then recently released ICES quota advice for 2022 for main pelagic species in the North Atlantic show mostly recommendation for a decrease in quota. Today we focus on the last Monthly Pelagic Report and the latest news within pelagic species.

Norwegian mackerel fishery has picked up, the average first sale price of North Sea herring has increased, and the interest for Atlantic mackerel from the Asiatic markets are very strong.

As we enter the second week in November, Norwegian landings of pelagic species points to record levels in terms of value. So far, first sale values have totalled nearly 8.6 billion NOK, which is an increase compared to the same period last year. While volumes might be slight less than last year there are still above 85 000 tonnes left to be fished of the herring and nearly 40 000 tonnes of the mackerel.

Despite a decrease in first sale mackerel price, the values of the mackerel landings increased. After a few quiet weeks, Norwegian mackerel fishery has picked up. The Norwegian quota is around 90.000 tonnes higher this year than last year. The outlook for 2022 is lower mackerel quotas and this is affecting the price level on the edge of the season.

There are around 11 000 tonnes left of the North Sea herring quota and nearly 75 000 tonnes left of the NSS herring quota. The average first sale price of North Sea herring has increased so far this year and total sales value ended close to 800 million NOK. We also see that the average first sale price for NSS herring saw an increase from the same period last year. Average sales value is so far about 38% higher than last year mainly driven by higher volumes but also increased price level.

The interest for Atlantic mackerel from the Asiatic markets are very strong and is the main driver behind the strong position of the mackerel. Due to the early start of the season this year and the large volumes landed, export volumes saw a big increase during Jan-Sep this year. The markets for round frozen herring have grown throughout the pandemic while the markets for frozen fillets have weakened. Export prices for both round frozen herring and herring fillet increased in Jan-Sep this year.

Want to learn more about the latest trends in the world of pelagic species? Check out our Monthly Pelagic Report.

Image: Shutterstock by sweet marshmallow