Port of Hirtshals sees record fish landings in 2024, driven by increased mackerel volumes, strong prices, and port expansion plans. Photo: Port of Hirtshals
Mackerel Landings and Strong Prices Drive 29% Growth in Fishing Sector
The Port of Hirtshals has seen a remarkable rise in fish landings in 2024, with the total value reaching DKK 496 million ($71 million / €66.5 million / £56.8 million).
This represents a 29% increase from 2023, marking the highest landing value in five years.
The surge in fish landings is largely driven by higher mackerel volumes and strong market prices for key species. Danish vessels landed nearly 3,000 tonnes of mackerel at the port, valued at approximately DKK 50 million ($7.2 million / €6.7 million / £5.7 million), a sharp contrast to minimal landings in 2023.
A Leading Hub for Danish Fisheries
As one of Denmark’s top fishing ports, the Port of Hirtshals plays a vital role in the seafood industry, supporting a large network of fish processors and exporters.
Linn Indrestrand, Head of Fishery & Maritime Services at the Port of Hirtshals, highlighted the positive impact on the industry:
“The increase in landing value is a major boost for businesses and fishers at the port. There is a strong sense of optimism for the coming year.”
The growth in fishing activity comes alongside a broader recovery in port traffic, following several years of disruption due to COVID-19, global instability, and currency fluctuations.
Photo: Port of Hirtshals
Port Expansion to Support Growth in Fishing and Transport
To sustain growth in fishing and transport operations, the Port of Hirtshals is continuing with its Expansion North project. This development will:
- Improve navigational conditions to accommodate larger vessels
- Enhance safety measures for fishing and cargo ships
- Boost service reliability for port customers
Port CEO Per Holm Nørgaard emphasized the importance of the expansion:
“With ferry operators introducing larger vessels in the coming years, we are working hard to ensure the port has the capacity to handle increased traffic and fishing activity.”
A Record Year for Hirtshals Fishing Industry
With rising fish prices, strong landings, and an expanding port infrastructure, the Port of Hirtshals is on a growth trajectory. The fishing sector’s success in 2024 is expected to drive further investment and sustainability initiatives, reinforcing the port’s status as a key hub for Denmark’s seafood industry.
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