From the Norwegian shrimp pavilion at a seafood fair in Dalian.
Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC)
Thanks to high demand, good resource availability, and low import tariffs, Norwegian shrimp have become a standout product in China's imports from the European country.
According to the Norwegian Seafood Council (NSC), in July 2025, Norway exported nearly 1,500 tons of shrimp worth almost NOK 81 million, representing a value increase of NOK 78 million compared to July 2024.
To understand this phenomenon, one must look at the abundance of shrimp in the Barents Sea, where Norway shares a quota of 150,000 tons with the EU and Russia. Also, lower cod quotas and strong shrimp stocks have prompted many Norwegian fishermen to shift from cod to shrimp fishing.
"The export price of cooked, frozen, and peeled shrimp to China was 19% higher in August this year compared to the same month last year. This is clear evidence of the increased demand," added Josefine Voraa, shellfish analyst at NSC.
Until now, Greenland and Canada have been the main suppliers of cold-water shrimp to China. Specifically, in March, an additional 25% tariff was imposed on Canadian shrimp exports to China.
In addition, both countries have reported lower catches of high-quality shrimp as a result of warmer seas and increasing cod populations in their fishing areas—since cod feed on shrimp, this has further reduced availability.
For all these reasons, Norwegian and Chinese players in the shrimp industry met in Dalian, northern China, this past May to create a platform for connecting the industries of both countries. The event led to new relationships being formed and new supply contracts being signed.
"The shrimp season is almost over for this year, but it will be interesting to see what happens next season. The foundation for cooperation between Norwegian and Chinese players has now been laid, and if shrimp becomes more available next year, there is great potential for further growth," said seafood envoy in China, Sigmund Bjørgo.
