The fish and seafood sector
The Catalan fishing fleet primarily operates in coastal waters and is in line with legislation on regulated species in Mediterranean fishing grounds that have been brought into force because of the need to protect fisheries resources from overfishing.
In the last few years, catches have decreased while turnover has increased, revealing that fisheries products have become a luxury food and therefore demand the highest quality standards. In 2022, catches amounted to 21,500 tonnes.
Another change in recent years is the increase in fish farming as a necessary supplement to traditional fishing methods. As a result, the aquaculture sector has developed in Catalonia, with new cultivation techniques adapted to our coastline and a large variety of molluscs, fish and crustaceans. Freshwater trout, oyster and mussel fish farms have also been created in Catalonia. Aquaculture production stands at 8,417 tonnes.
Exports
In terms of foreign trade, these exports represent 2.5% of total agri-food exports. Currently, it is the sector with the highest volume/value ratio. The fish and seafood sector exports, mostly to European countries, such as Italy, France and Portugal.
NEWS FROM SECTOR FISH AND SEAFOOD
07.06.26
Catalonia increases its agri-food exports by 6.62% and exceeds €11,000 M for the first time
In 2020, Catalonia's food sector reached a new export record and exceeded €11,000 M in international sales for the first time. Compared to the data of 2019, they have increased by 6.62% in value and 6.95% in volume, becoming the only economic sector that grows in exports.
07.06.26
Food and transmission of Covid-19
The European Food Safety Agency (EFSA) has signed a statement in which it informs that there is no scientific evidence, until now, that food can be a way of transmission of the Coronavirus.
07.06.26
Radiography of fishing and aquaculture in Catalonia
The fishing and aquaculture sector plays an important role in Catalonia within the framework of the agri-food industry.