UK Seafood
in Numbers 2024
Welcome to UK Seafood in Numbers 2024. The UK is home to some of the most varied fishing grounds in Europe, supplying over 60 commercial species of fish and shellfish to markets around the world. Our connection to the sea has shaped our history and will shape our future.
Here, you’ll discover where our seafood comes from, how the UK seafood industry operates, and the current trends in seafood consumption.
Click on one of the icons below to find out more about a sector
Where our seafood comes from
Most of the seafood we eat is importedinto the UK.
The value of seafood imports was more than four times the value of fish landed into the UK.
Where our seafood comes from (volume and value)
*Data in brackets show changes from previous 12 months
UK seafood imports grew in 2024, driven by rising domestic demand and shifts in global supply. Pelagic species, particularly tuna, showed the strongest growth, while whitefish saw little growth but remained the largest category
Where our seafood goes
We export most of the seafood landed or farmed in the UK. In addition, 36% of the volume of fish caught by the UK fleet is landed abroad.
Historically, international demand for UK seafood has been strong. However, demand has slowed due to export challenges, changing consumer preferences, and economic shocks.
Exports
from the UK
Value
£1,985 m (+13%)
Volume
493,030 tonnes live weight (+11.4%)
UK vessel
landings abroad
Value
£251 m (-3%)
Volume
252,664 tonnes (+5%)
