Imports of Chilled Salmon Show Significant Decline — Down 16% Year-on-Year
In March 2025, the import of chilled salmon in Korea experienced a notable decrease, with a total of 1,137 tons being imported. This represents a 16% drop compared to the same period in 2024, which saw imports of 1,357 tons.
From January to March 2025, the cumulative import volume of chilled salmon was recorded at 3,217 tons, marking a significant 22.5% decline from the 4,154 tons imported during the same period in 2024.
Chilled salmon imports accounted for approximately 1.4% of the total seafood import volume, which stood at 234,669 tons.
By country, Norwegian chilled salmon dominated the market with a 99% share of the total volume, amounting to 3,207 tons by the end of March. Australia followed with 6 tons, and Chile with 4 tons.
Notable differences in import unit prices were observed among the top three countries. Norwegian salmon led with an average import price of USD 14.41/kg, followed by Australian salmon at USD 15.17/kg, and Chilean salmon at USD 12.25/kg.
The import value of chilled salmon in March 2025 totaled USD 11.71 million, indicating a significant 40% decrease from the previous year’s figure of USD 19.42 million. The cumulative import value for January to March was USD 46.35 million, reflecting a 26% decrease from USD 62.74 million in the same period in 2024.
The overall average import price for chilled salmon in March 2025 was USD 14.41/kg, showing a 5% decrease from the previous year’s average of USD 15.10/kg.
With the continuous decline in both import volume and value of chilled salmon, a slight decrease in domestic distribution prices is anticipated in the near future.
