Here is an analysis and summary of the most important news from the aquaculture industry as of April 9, 2026. Today's news landscape is characterized by fresh export figures for March, a seasonal price correction after Easter, and operational updates from major industry players.
Market Development: Price pressure after Easter despite strong underlying demand
After the Easter holiday, the spot price for Norwegian salmon has fallen to around EUR 7.25 (approx. NOK 85) per kilo. The decline is due to a combination of increased supply and a temporary weakening of demand following the holiday. Nevertheless, the figures for March show very solid underlying growth in the market, with an 11% increase in demand compared to last year. This indicates that the market has good absorption capacity for the volumes coming in.
Why this is important: Price movements immediately after holidays are common, but the double-digit growth in demand in March gives reason for optimism regarding price development throughout the spring.
Source: [Spot price Norway: Down to EUR 7.25 / USD 8.46](https://www.salmonbusiness.com/spot-price-norway-down-to-eur-7-25-usd-8-46/)
Export Status: Record-high value, but challenges for trout
Norwegian seafood exports reached NOK 15.5 billion in March, an increase of 3% from last year. Salmon is the primary driver, but for trout, the development was weaker with a decline in export volume to 5,100 tonnes. Overall, figures from the Norwegian Seafood Council show that Norwegian seafood stands strong in global markets despite economic uncertainty in some regions.
Why this is important: Export figures serve as the industry's thermometer. While salmon maintains its dominance, the decline in trout exports highlights the need to monitor species-specific market fluctuations and production challenges.
Sources: [Norwegian Seafood Council: exports reach €1.4 billion in March](https://www.salmonbusiness.com/norwegian-seafood-council-seafood-exports-reach-e1-4-billion-in-march/) and [Norway: trout exports decline in March](https://www.salmonbusiness.com/norway-trout-exports-decline-in-march/)
SalMar: Operational update for Q1 2026
SalMar has reported a harvest volume of 60,300 tonnes for the first quarter of 2026. As one of the world's largest salmon producers, SalMar's trading updates serve as an important indicator of biological status and production efficiency in Central and Northern Norway, as well as their international operations.
Why this is important: Harvest volumes provide investors and the market with insight into the company's ability to deliver according to guidance and are instrumental in setting expectations for the upcoming quarterly results.
Source: [SalMar: reports Q1 harvest volume of 60,300 tonnes](https://www.salmonbusiness.com/salmar-reports-q1-harvest-volume-of-60300-tonnes/)
Strategic Investments: Bakkafrost renews fleet in Scotland
Bakkafrost Scotland has taken delivery of a new landing craft valued at GBP 1.2 million (approx. NOK 16 million) from Bute Boat Builders. This is part of the company's long-term strategy to modernize infrastructure and improve logistics at its Scottish sites.
Why this is important: Investments in specialized vessels are crucial for managing biological challenges and streamlining daily operations, especially in exposed areas in Scotland.
Source: [Bakkafrost Scotland: takes delivery of £