Chef Nikolai Sarychev, PCA President Alexey Buglak and the Head of the Russian Agency of Fishery, Ilya Shestakov at the 'Far Eastern Pollock' day

Russia’s Fish Market Thrives: Herring Leads, Pollock Surges, and Seafood Culture Expands

RUSSIAN FEDERATION
Tuesday, May 20, 2025, 06:00 (GMT + 9)

Fish consumption in Russia remains strong with growing demand, evolving preferences, and rising domestic production shaping the market’s future.

Russia’s seafood consumption continues to rise steadily, with herring holding firm as the nation's favorite fish, followed closely by pink salmon and pollock. According to the Fish Union, Russians consumed approximately 22.7 kg of fish per capita in 2024—on par with the previous year and 18% higher than in 2022.

While price remains a secondary factor in consumer choices, regional consumption patterns vary widely. For instance, Sevastopol reports 30.6 kg per capita, while Crimea lags at 16 kg. Demand for fish is being driven not only by consumer habits but also by increasing domestic supply and strategic industry efforts to enhance visibility and access to fish products.

Pollock’s Rise and Market Strategy

Pollock has notably climbed to become the third most consumed fish in Russia, with domestic deliveries reaching 252,000 tons in 2024—up 12% from the previous year. Representing over 40% of Russia’s total catch, pollock production neared 2 million tons in 2024.

To boost pollock’s popularity, the Pollock Catchers Association launched the “Far Eastern Pollock” campaign in late 2023. Through recipes, media content, festivals, and influencer outreach, the initiative has raised pollock recognition by 1.6 times and increased consumer purchases by 21%.

Pollock promotional campaign by the Pollock Catchers Association

Trout and Seafood Gain Ground

Trout has also gained a stronger foothold thanks to increased aquaculture and imports. Consumption has surged 70% over the past five years to reach 115,000 tons in 2024. Domestic production held steady at 40,000 tons, while imports—primarily from Turkey—rose to 75,000 tons, up 20% from 2023.

Meanwhile, seafood such as shrimp, mussels, and crabs is shedding its “luxury” status. Innovations in mariculture, targeted pricing, and improved packaging have made these products more accessible, encouraging broader consumption across demographics.

Infrastructure and Access as Growth Catalysts

Despite strong demand, industry leaders point to limited cold storage and distribution infrastructure as a key barrier to further growth. Unlike meat or dairy markets, fish offerings remain limited, reducing consumers’ ability to switch species based on price.

All-Russia Association of Fishing Industry, Businessmen and Exporters (VARPE) President German Zverev emphasizes the importance of modernizing storage and transport systems, particularly in regions without large-scale refrigerated warehouses. He also advocates for greater fish presence in public procurement and foodservice sectors, alongside subsidies for transporting fish from the Far East to Western Russia.

Product Safety Maintained

Safety remains a high priority across the Russian seafood sector. According to Rosselkhoznadzor’s testing laboratory, 94–95% of fish products meet quality and safety standards, with most issues involving microbiological factors in ready-to-eat items. Parasitic risks exist, though rarely in aquaculture, where violations involving veterinary drug residues are minimal.

As Russia enhances its aquaculture output, supply chains, and promotional strategies, the country's seafood market is poised for steady growth and increasing global relevance.

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