Chilean farmed coho salmon prices rise, production is low

The article explains the significant price increase in Chilean coho salmon, with factors including growing demand in East Asian and Southeast Asian markets, increased European interest in smoked products, and a decline in Pacific wild salmon production. Despite Japan's status as the largest importer, Chile has been diversifying its exports. The expected production drop this year, along with reduced sockeye salmon production in the United States, has led to a tight supply market, sparking interest from Europe and China. The price increase aligns with forecasts and is expected to rise further next year, especially with the anticipating price hike in Norwegian Atlantic salmon and the depletion of Chile's frozen stocks.

Guzman said the price increase reflects growing demand in emerging markets in East Asia and Southeast Asia, as well as increased interest in smoked products in Europe. In recent years, Chilean producers have expanded their coho exports to China, South Korea and Southeast Asia to diversify beyond Japan. So far this year, inquiries from Europe and the United States have also increased. Japan remains the largest single importer of Chilean coho salmon, purchasing 145,000 tons of H&G coho salmon in 2023-24, accounting for 67% of Chile's exports. Industry data shows that the number of coho salmon in Chile fell by 6.8 million in 2024-25. Chilean coho salmon are small in size, with an average size of 4 kilograms and a farming mortality rate of about 8%. This year's production is expected to be around 250,000 tons, down from 290,000 tons last year. Historically, about 60% of Chile's farmed coho salmon are used to produce H&G, and this year's production is expected to drop from 147,000 tons ...