Export data for 2005 is not yet complete (December data is due February 10) but even without December, 2005 U.S. salmon export value is $662 million, the highest since 1996.
The most recent three-year average (2002-2004) of U.S. salmon export value is $520 million per calendar year. Most of the value (82 percent) is from exports to three key markets: Japan (37 percent) European Union (24 percent) and Canada (21 percent).
Value of U.S. salmon exports to Japan revolves around frozen sockeye and salmon roe, which account for nearly 90 percent of value. Salmon exports to Canada and the European Union (EU) are more varied. Canned salmon accounts for about half of export value to Canada and the EU, with a variety of fresh and frozen salmon products making up the remainder.
Because of production logistics and product-form characteristics, salmon exports to Japan spike sharply in July and August while exports to Canada and the EU are steadier throughout the year. Japan’s receipts of U.S. salmon dominate the picture during the key July-November period, but export value to Canada and the EU (combined) is substantially higher and has been since 2000.
Through November 2005, distribution of salmon export value appears similar to the most recent three-year average: 36 percent to Japan, 23 percent to European Union and 18 percent to Canada. China is emerging is an important export destination, accounting for 11 percent ($74 million) of U.S. salmon export value through November 2005.
