At the International Fisheries Forum in St. Petersburg, Agriculture Minister Dmitry Patrushev announced that Russia has significantly expanded its fish product exports to 80 countries this year. This expansion reflects Russia’s proactive efforts to grow its presence in the global fish market, despite facing various restrictions.
Minister Patrushev highlighted the consistent progress, stating, “Despite all restrictions, we are now delivering our fish to 80 countries. In 2022, there were 60, and in 2021, 58. That is, we are working systematically. We can see that fish is in demand, and we are not sitting idly by but opening new markets.”
Furthermore, Russia’s fishing industry is strategically shifting toward friendly nations as it continues to establish bilateral fishing agreements. These agreements encompass most coastal countries in Africa, North and South America, with some extending back to the Soviet era. Russian fishing fleets are active across various parts of the Atlantic Ocean and the southeastern Pacific Ocean.
Minister Patrushev emphasized Russia’s commitment to fostering cooperation with countries in the Asia-Pacific region, Latin America, Africa, and the Middle East. He underlined Russia’s reputation as a reliable trading partner, emphasizing its steadfastness in international trade.
In 2022, Russia witnessed a 4% increase in fish product exports, reaching 2.2 million tonnes. Simultaneously, the country is systematically reducing imports, a trend that Minister Patrushev hopes will continue in 2023. Russia’s goal is to boost exports while curbing imports.
Regarding fish catches, Minister Patrushev projected that this year’s total could surpass 5 million tonnes, up from 4.9 million tonnes in the previous year. As of now, over 4.5 million tonnes have been caught, marking an 11.5% increase compared to the previous year. Salmon fishing season alone yielded nearly 600,000 tonnes, a 2.5-fold increase over the same period last year. Commercial fish production, including aquaculture, is expected to exceed 400,000 tonnes, up from 380,000 tonnes last year.
Russia’s significant fish catches solidify its position as one of the world’s top five leaders in the fishing industry. As the country continues to explore new markets and expand its presence, it anticipates a prosperous future in the global fish trade.