Chilean salmon and its presence in the Japanese market

Chilean salmon is present in the Japanese market, where it is the leading exporter of coho and Atlantic salmon. Despite challenges in fish consumption, it remains the preferred choice in Japan. The salmon industry seeks to maintain its growth and sustainability.

Chilean salmon has consolidated its position in the Japanese market, standing out as one of the main suppliers of this product in the Asian country. Despite a general downward trend in fish consumption in Japan over the last decade, salmon remains highly popular among Japanese consumers.

Strong Chilean presence in the Land of the Rising Sun market

During 2023, Chile positioned itself as the main supplier of coho salmon and rainbow trout to Japan, capturing 75% of the market, followed by Russia with 12% and the United States with 9%. 

That year, Japan became the second most important destination for Chilean salmon and trout exports, with shipments reaching US$943 million, representing 15% of global exports of these products and 58% of Chilean shipments to Asian markets. 

During the first half of 2024, Chilean salmon and trout exports to Japan totaled US$500 million, representing an increase of 9.6% compared to the same period last year. 

In addition, Chile plays a crucial role in the supply of frozen coho salmon to Japan, accounting for nearly 99% of the volume imported of this product.

It is important to note that between January and October 2024, Japan remained the second largest buyer of salmon from Chile, with a total of US$808 million. During the same period, the volume of fish shipped grew by 26%, reaching 167,359 tons.

Salmon industry export figures to Japan

From January to October 2024, Atlantic salmon exports accounted for 6% of total shipments in tons, while representing 9% in millions of dollars. This resulted in a year-on-year variation of 18% in US currency.

In the case of coho salmon, the tonnage exported reached 75%, while sales in dollars represented 70%. These figures translate into a year-on-year growth of 25% in dollars.

Meanwhile, trout accounted for 18% of exports to Japan in tons and 22% in dollars, although the year-on-year variation was -7% in US currency.

In terms of product type, H/G salmon accounted for 55% of exports, which translated into a 24% increase in dollars compared to the previous year. Salmon fillets accounted for 38%, increasing in value by 11%.

Consumption preferences in Japan

Although overall consumption of seafood has declined in Japan, salmon remains the Japanese people’s favorite fish. This preference is due, in part, to the ease of preparation and availability of salmon at various points of sale, from supermarkets to convenience stores. 

In addition, at popular conveyor belt sushi restaurants, known as kaiten sushi, salmon is the most requested fish, according to Nury Disegni, commercial attaché for ProChile in Japan.

Future prospects

The Japanese market continues to be strategic for Chilean salmon farming. A strong presence in Japan provides a platform to strengthen Chile’s position in Asia and explore new business opportunities in the region.

To maintain and expand its share of this market, the Chilean salmon industry must continue to adapt to Japanese consumer preferences, focusing on high-quality, easy-to-consume, and sustainable products.

With the right strategies and effective collaboration between the public and private sectors, the national salmon farming industry has the potential to strengthen its presence in Japan and other international markets.