Photo: Los Peretes
Spain's canned seafood industry: squid production on the upswing
SPAIN
Wednesday, March 26, 2025, 06:00 (GMT + 9)
Spain's Canned Fish and Seafood Industry Showed Resilience in 2024, Recording Slight Increases in Production and Valuation
The Spanish canned fish and seafood sector demonstrated resilience in 2024, recording a slight increase in production (+0.7%) and valuation (+1%). According to Roberto Alonso, Secretary General of Anfaco-Cecopesca, production reached 308,506 tons, valued at 1,898 million euros, consolidating its position as the main processed seafood industry, representing approximately 50% of the sector's total value.
Consolidation of the Canned Sector:
These data, aligned with Anfaco's 2025 Report, indicate a stabilization of production, reversing the decline of 2021 and 2022. However, production still does not reach the 350,000 tons recorded five years ago.
- Tuna: Continues to be the main driver, representing 74% of production and 56% of value.
- Recovery: The increase in the production of small squids and squids (+8.6%) and mussels (+3%) is notable.
- Challenges: Sardine and small sardine faced raw material shortages.
Alonso emphasizes that the commitment to added value is crucial for the sector's growth. The deceleration of inflation, competitive exports, and investment in competitiveness are key factors. The Perte Mar-Industria, with 27 projects considered, demonstrates the industry's commitment to Spain.
Exports: Growth Engine:
Exports, especially of canned goods, drove the sector in 2024, growing 3.7% in volume and 8.1% in value. Since 2019, canned goods exports have increased 13.5% in volume and 51% in value, with tuna leading.
- Challenges: Frozen fish experienced a decline in exports.
- International Markets: U.S. tariff policy is a concern, although the EU remains the main destination.
Domestic Market: Fragile Demand:
Domestic demand remains weak, but innovation and inflation containment have helped stabilize consumption. Canned goods are the second most common form of fish consumption in Spanish households.
- Trends: A shift towards high added value products, such as canned goods and ready-to-eat preparations, is observed.
- Challenges: Total seafood consumption in Spanish households has decreased.
Conclusion:
The seafood industry in Spain shows stability, but sustainable growth depends on investment in added value, export expansion, and the recovery of domestic consumption.
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