Norway optimistic about burgeoning demand for salmon

The Norwegian fishery industry is looking to further consolidate its gains in China, after notching up a fivefold growth in salmon exports during the first six months of the year.

According to Sigmund Bjorgo, director of the Norwegian Seafood Council for the Chinese mainland and Hong Kong, three more Norwegian provinces - Sor-Trondelag, Nordland and Troms - have got the green light from China for salmon exports.

"Since China eased market access last November, Norwegian salmon exports to China have dramatically increased," he said. "During the first six months of this year, the export volume reached 366 million yuan ($54.6 million), up 544 percent year-on-year."