Chile: salmon industry was second-largest exporter in 2023

Chile's salmon farming sector has regained its position as the second-largest contributor to national exports, totaling US $6.47 billion in 2023, according to a new assessment by the country's Central Bank.

The findings show that in 2023, the salmon industry's export value came in just behind copper mining, surpassing Chile's lithium industry as well as outpacing the forestry, fruit, and wine sectors.

Last year, the Chilean salmon farming sector's export performance outstripped lithium shipments by US $406 million, with the latter concluding the previous year at almost US $6.1 billion.

Chilean salmon industry recovers to pre-pandemic export levels

"We are pleased with these figures, underscoring once again the significance of this productive sector, not only for the southern region but also for the nation," said Arturo Clément, President of SalmonChile.

"Ranking as the second most exported product in 2023, we have successfully recovered the pre-pandemic export levels, and we anticipate continuing on this positive trajectory in the years ahead," he continued.

"Salmon holds great potential for our country as the second-largest global producer. Our strategic focus remains on further consolidation through technological innovations, research, science, and sustainable development," Clément added.