Prices for Chilean coho salmon in Japan are rising amid stable demand for salmon

According to a major Japanese importer, prices are expected to rise further by 20 yen/kg in February. Frozen, gutted, head-on Chilean coho salmon now sell wholesale for about 930 yen per kg in four- to six-pound sizes, and about 900 yen per kg for fish weighing 6 to 9 pounds. Chilean coho salmon supplies to Japan are currently at peak seasonal levels, resulting in high inventory levels but stable sales to processors and end consumers, according to the importer. Another Tokyo importer cautioned that it was too early to predict price trends in February, noting an increase in Chilean coho salmon production this season coupled with a decline in fillet production compared with 2022-2023. The recent algae bloom in Chile has not yet had a direct impact on the Japanese coho salmon market, the source said. In 2023, stocks of Alaskan sockeye salmon products, which compete with Chilean coho in the salt salmon market, have caused H&G Chilean coho prices to fall to ¥930-950/kg for a 4/6-pound ...