Ireland’s seafood industry is valued at €1.2 billion, with Brexit Adjustment Reserve (BAR) funding bringing the total GDP impact to €1.4 billion.

The sector employs 15,673 people, with 8,145 directly working in seafood-related roles.

Major fishing ports include Killybegs (€311M in Irish landings, €157M in non-Irish landings) and Castletownbere (€102M in Irish landings, €129M in non-Irish landings).

Ireland has 1,988 registered fishing vessels, 103 seafood processors, and 282 aquaculture sites. Domestic seafood sales reached €515M, with €325M from food service and €190M from retail. Ireland exported €635M worth of seafood in 2023, with €368M going to the EU, €101M to the UK, and €68M to Asia. Imports totaled €370M, with €87M coming from the UK.

Strategies for Ireland’s Seafood Future

1. Invest in Sustainable Fishing (€50M)

Ireland is expanding eco-friendly fishing methods and enforcing quotas to ensure long-term marine health. The Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) regulates sustainable fishing across the EU, ensuring Irish waters are protected. Compared to Spain (€1.8B seafood exports) and France (€1.5B), Ireland’s investment in sustainability is smaller but growing.

Ireland is implementing sustainable fishing strategies to protect marine ecosystems while maintaining seafood production. The Inland Fisheries Ireland Sustainability Program focuses on habitat restoration and responsible fishing practices. The Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification ensures Irish fisheries meet global sustainability standards, reducing overfishing risks. The Irish Sea Fisheries Conservation Scheme promotes selective fishing gear, such as pole-and-line fishing, to minimize bycatch and protect vulnerable species. Marine protected areas (MPAs) restrict fishing in key habitats, allowing fish stocks to replenish. The Quota Management System regulates catch limits, ensuring species populations remain stable. Compared to Spain (€1.8B seafood exports) and France (€1.5B), Ireland’s investment in sustainability is smaller but growing, positioning the country as a leader in responsible seafood production.

2. Enhance Seafood Branding (€30M)

Ireland is promoting its seafood as a premium, sustainable product to boost international demand. The Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) leads branding efforts, positioning Irish seafood as high-quality. Norway (€2.5B seafood exports) has successfully branded its seafood globally, providing a model for Ireland.

Ireland is investing €30 million to elevate its seafood branding, positioning it as a premium, sustainable product in global markets. Connemara Seafoods has undergone a major rebranding effort, refining its identity to highlight its high-quality Irish shellfish and leveraging state-of-the-art processing technology to meet international standards. The Green Seafood Business Programme, led by Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM), helps seafood companies adopt eco-friendly practices, ensuring sustainability is a core part of Ireland’s seafood identity. Ireland is also tackling misleading seafood labeling, ensuring that only genuinely Irish-sourced seafood carries national branding. Compared to Norway’s €2.5 billion seafood exports, Ireland is scaling up its branding efforts to compete with leading seafood nations while reinforcing its reputation for quality and sustainability

3. Develop Advanced Aquaculture (€169M)

Investing in innovative fish farming techniques increases production while reducing environmental impact. Ireland’s aquaculture sector is valued at €169M, with €101M from farmed finfish and €68M from farmed shellfish. Compared to Scotland (€1.3B aquaculture industry), Ireland’s sector is smaller but growing.

Advanced aquaculture technologies are transforming fish farming into a more sustainable and efficient industry. AI-powered automated feeding systems optimize food distribution based on fish behavior, reducing waste and improving growth rates. Smart water quality sensors monitor oxygen levels, temperature, and pH to maintain ideal conditions, preventing disease outbreaks. Recirculating Aquaculture Systems (RAS) filter and reuse water, cutting down pollution while promoting eco-friendly practices. Scientists are advancing genetic engineering and selective breeding to create disease-resistant fish for higher survival rates. Underwater drones and robotics streamline stock monitoring, tank cleaning, and health inspections, reducing manual labor. Blockchain technology enhances seafood traceability, ensuring transparency from farm to table. Even VR training simulations are helping farmers refine techniques without real-world risks. These innovations are revolutionizing aquaculture, making seafood production smarter, greener, and ready for the future.

4. Improve Supply Chain Efficiency (€40M)

Streamlining logistics and reducing waste makes Irish seafood more competitive globally. Investments in cold storage and transport infrastructure ensure seafood reaches markets efficiently. Denmark (€1.1B seafood exports) has optimized its supply chain, providing a benchmark for Ireland.

Ireland is investing €40 million to enhance seafood supply chain efficiency, focusing on cold storage, transport infrastructure, and waste reduction. The Resource Efficiency Guide for Seafood Processors outlines strategies such as advanced refrigeration systems to minimize spoilage and extend shelf life. Smart logistics tracking optimizes transportation routes, cutting costs and reducing carbon emissions. Automated processing technologies streamline seafood handling, improving quality and reducing labor costs. The Brexit Seafood Processing Capital Support Scheme (€45M) further supports infrastructure upgrades, helping businesses adapt to post-Brexit trade challenges. Compared to Denmark (€1.1B seafood exports), Ireland is scaling up its supply chain resilience to match leading European seafood markets. These improvements will strengthen Ireland’s position in global seafood trade while ensuring sustainable and efficient operations.

5. Expand International Markets (€50M)

Strengthening trade agreements and marketing efforts opens new export opportunities. Ireland exported €635M worth of seafood in 2023, with €368M going to the EU. Compared to Iceland (€1.2B seafood exports), Ireland has room to grow.

Ireland is actively expanding its seafood exports through trade agreements, branding initiatives, and market diversification. The Market Access: Seafood program supports Irish seafood businesses in navigating international trade regulations and securing export certifications. Ireland’s seafood exports reached €635 million in 2023, with €368 million going to the EU, €101 million to the UK, and €68 million to Asia. The Seafood Scaling and Innovation Fund helps companies enhance processing capabilities to meet global standards. Ireland is also leveraging Bord Bia’s Origin Green sustainability program to position its seafood as a premium product in international markets. Compared to Iceland’s €1.2 billion seafood exports, Ireland is scaling up efforts to increase global competitiveness while maintaining sustainability commitments.

6. Support Local Seafood Businesses (€20M)

Providing grants and incentives helps small fisheries thrive. The Brexit Fish Processor Transition Scheme (€7M) and Brexit Fisheries Cooperative Transition Scheme (€1M) support businesses affected by Brexit. Ireland’s funding is lower than Sweden (€100M seafood subsidies).

Ireland is actively supporting local seafood businesses through targeted funding and sustainability initiatives. The Brexit Fish Processor Transition Scheme (€7M) provides financial aid to seafood processors adapting to post-Brexit trade challenges, helping them upgrade equipment and improve efficiency. The Brexit Fisheries Cooperative Transition Scheme (€1M) assists fishing cooperatives in maintaining operations despite quota reductions. The Irish Seafood Business and Origin Green Programme promotes sustainability by helping seafood companies achieve environmental certification, ensuring long-term viability. Additionally, Ireland’s Seafood Scaling and Innovation Fund supports small fisheries in adopting advanced processing technologies and expanding market reach. Compared to Sweden’s €100M seafood subsidies, Ireland’s funding is more targeted but growing. These efforts strengthen local seafood businesses, ensuring they remain competitive in the evolving global market.

7. Encourage Research & Innovation (€25M)

Funding marine science and technology drives breakthroughs in seafood sustainability. The European Maritime, Fisheries and Aquaculture Fund (EMFAF) supports research. Compared to Germany (€200M seafood research funding), Ireland’s investment is modest.

Ireland is investing €25 million in research and innovation to advance seafood sustainability, focusing on marine science, processing technology, and value-added seafood products. The Seafood Innovation Hub supports businesses in developing new processing techniques and improving efficiency. The Irish Seafood Industry Co-Products Initiative explores ways to repurpose seafood byproducts, reducing waste and increasing profitability. The Centre of Excellence for Seafood Processing researches automation, logistics, and value-added technologies for species like mackerel and herring. Ireland is also benchmarking its seafood sector against global competitors through the Industry 4.0 Pelagic Opportunities Project, which evaluates automation and IoT-enabled technologies. Compared to Germany’s €200 million seafood research funding, Ireland’s investment is smaller but strategically focused on sustainability and commercial growth.

8. Strengthen Seafood Regulations (€15M)

Ensuring strict quality and sustainability standards enhances Ireland’s reputation. The Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) governs environmental protection. Ireland’s regulatory framework is similar to Finland (€20M seafood sustainability funding).

Authority (SFPA) enforces national and EU legislation, overseeing seafood safety and fisheries compliance. Regulations such as the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD) and the Common Fisheries Policy (CFP) set environmental and fishing standards to prevent overfishing and habitat destruction. Specific laws, including the Brown Crab Conservation Regulations (S.I. 26 of 2019) and the Lobster Conservation Regulations (S.I. 640 of 2017), protect key species. The European Union (Labelling of Fishery and Aquaculture Products) Regulations 2016 ensures transparency in seafood sourcing. Ireland’s Shellfish Monitoring Programme tracks biotoxin levels to maintain food safety standards. Compared to Finland’s €20 million seafood sustainability funding, Ireland’s investment is focused on compliance, conservation, and consumer protection, reinforcing its position as a leader in responsible seafood production.

9. Promote Seafood Consumption (€10M)

Educating consumers on the benefits of seafood increases domestic demand. Ireland’s seafood retail market is valued at €190M, with €325M from food service. Compared to Portugal (€500M seafood retail market), Ireland has room to grow.

Ireland is actively promoting seafood consumption through marketing campaigns, educational programs, and accessibility improvements. The Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) runs initiatives like Taste the Atlantic, which highlights the quality of Irish seafood through coastal food trails and chef collaborations. SeaFest, Ireland’s national maritime festival, showcases seafood sustainability and encourages public engagement. The government is investing in school nutrition programs, integrating seafood into meal plans to familiarize younger generations with its benefits. Retailers and restaurants are incentivized to feature Irish seafood prominently, with subsidies supporting local sourcing. Compared to Portugal, where seafood consumption is deeply embedded in cultural traditions, Ireland is working to shift consumer habits through awareness campaigns and improved distribution networks. These efforts aim to increase domestic seafood demand, benefiting both the economy and public health.

10. Collaborate with Global Leaders (€35M)

Partnering with top seafood-producing nations brings new expertise and opportunities. Ireland works with the EU, UK, and Norway to expand seafood trade. Compared to the Netherlands (€1.5B seafood exports), Ireland’s global partnerships are developing.

Ireland has been actively collaborating with global seafood leaders to strengthen its industry and expand market reach. One key partnership is with Norway, where Ireland imports high-quality salmon while exchanging expertise on sustainable aquaculture practices. The EU Fisheries Partnership Agreements allow Ireland to access shared fishing zones and benefit from collective sustainability initiatives. Ireland also works closely with the UK, particularly in post-Brexit trade negotiations, ensuring smooth seafood exports and regulatory alignment. Additionally, Ireland has engaged with Iceland, learning from its advanced seafood processing technologies to improve efficiency and reduce waste. These collaborations enhance Ireland’s seafood industry, making it more competitive on the global stage while ensuring long-term sustainability. 🚀🐟 Want to explore a specific partnership in more detail? 👀

Benefits for Society

Ireland’s seafood industry supports coastal communities, creates jobs, and promotes sustainable food sources. Investments in aquaculture and eco-friendly fishing methods maintain marine biodiversity while ensuring long-term seafood availability. Cooperation with other countries includes trade agreements with the EU, UK, and Asia, allowing Irish seafood to reach global markets. Past initiatives, such as the Irish Seafood Development Programme, have strengthened the sector through research and innovation. Future perspectives include expanding aquaculture, improving supply chain efficiency, and enhancing branding to position Irish seafood as a premium product.

Ireland’s seafood industry plays a crucial role in economic growth, environmental sustainability, and community development. Coastal towns like Killybegs and Castletownbere thrive due to seafood-related employment, supporting over 15,000 jobs. Investments in Integrated Multi-Trophic Aquaculture (IMTA) allow species like salmon, scallops, and seaweed to be farmed together, reducing waste and improving efficiency. The Sea-Fisheries Protection Authority (SFPA) enforces strict regulations to maintain marine biodiversity and prevent overfishing. Ireland collaborates with Norway and Iceland on sustainable fishing practices, ensuring responsible seafood production. The Seafood Innovation Hub funds research into advanced processing techniques, helping Irish seafood compete globally. Events like SeaFest promote seafood consumption and educate the public on sustainability. Compared to Portugal’s €500M seafood retail market, Ireland is expanding branding efforts to position its seafood as a premium product. These initiatives ensure long-term industry growth, environmental protection, and stronger global trade.

Key Figures & Companies

Minister Charlie McConalogue plays a key role in shaping Ireland’s seafood policies, overseeing initiatives that support sustainability and industry growth. Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) leads development efforts, providing funding and training programs to strengthen the sector. Keohane Seafoods, based in Cork, specializes in premium seafood processing, supplying major retailers across Ireland and the UK. Irish Fish Canners, the country’s only fish canning facility, exports high-quality canned seafood globally. Ocean Harvest Technology focuses on sustainable aquaculture, developing innovative seaweed-based feed solutions to reduce environmental impact. Ireland’s seafood industry benefits from €1.4 billion in total GDP, with €635 million in exports, reinforcing its position as a rising global player in sustainable seafood production

Ireland’s seafood industry is growing, but compared to leading European nations, there is still room for expansion. With the right strategies, Ireland could dominate the global market in the coming years. 🎣🌍

#IrishSeafood 🌊🐟 #SustainableFishing ♻️⚓ #SeafoodExports 📈🌍 #AquacultureInnovation 🚀🐠 #MarineConservation 🌿🌊