MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Chilean salmon exports increase 22%

Chilean salmon and trout exports reached 820 million US dollars during the first seven months of 2004, a 22% increase over the same period in 2003, according to SalmonChile A.G., the Chilean salmon industry association.

United States was the main customer for Chilean salmon and trout with 338,5 million US dollars equivalent to 41%, followed closely by Japan, 322 million, 39%. The European Union represented 7% (59,5 million US dollars) and Latinamerica 5% (42,7 million US dollars).

However Latinamerica, particularly Brazil was the fastest growing market with a 41% expansion in the seven months of 2004.

Regarding volume of the total 208.712 tons exported, Japan acquired 45%, United States 35% and EU and Latinamerica 6% each.

The SalmonChile A.G. release further indicates that 67% of all Chilean salmon and trout exported has added value, and that Chilean salmon dominates 60% of the Japanese market and 50% of the US market.