Norway and UK share bilateral updates on seafood partnership

The annual Norway-UK Seafood Summit returned last week with bilateral updates from the Norwegian minister for fisheries and ocean policy and the UK minister for food.

The summit discussed how the two countries are working together, with joint efforts to strengthen and develop seafood trade and relations with sustainability in mind.

The summit, oganised by the Norwegian Seafood Council, was held at Fishmonger’s Hall in London and saw Bjørnar Selnes Skjæran and minister Mark Spencer address almost 200 stakeholders from the seafood sector and related industries.

The two countries have a longstanding seafood partnership. Last year, Norway exported about 146,000 tons of seafood worth around £625m to the UK, made up of salmon, cod, haddock and cold-water prawns. Thirteen per cent of cod, 55% of haddock and 6% of salmon exports coming out of Norway are consumed in the UK.

Bilateral discussions highlighted Norway and UK’s commitment to a more sustainable future as well as looking at the UK economy, climate change, post-pandemic consumer consumption and nutrition.

Skjæran said:“The North Sea has, for centuries, laid a solid foundation for trade, cultural exchange and shared values between our two countries.

“Seafood has an important role to play in future food systems and is a vital part of a healthy and sustainable diet. Increasing seafood consumption, both in the context of sustainability and health benefits, is a shared agenda for Norway and the UK.”

Spencer added: “The UK and Norway have a historic and strong relationship, one of friendship, co-operation, and respect.

“I look forward to continuing to work together closely over the coming years and promoting our shared commitments to supporting an economically viable fishing industry while safeguarding our marine environment for future generations.”

Norwegian Seafood Council UK director Victoria Braathen concluded: “We need 70% more food by 2050 to feed our growing population; 98% of all food is currently produced on land, yet with two-thirds of our planet covered by oceans and this is a clear opportunity for more.

“From the enthusiasm and passion evident [at the summit], the future really is bright for the seafood category. We recognise the opportunity we have for Norwegian seafood in the UK, and we are excited for the coming years where we look to increase the visibility, awareness and value of Norwegian cod and haddock in the UK.”