Top 10 cod producing countries in the world in 2025

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Written by Robert Gultig

2 May 2025

Introduction

Cod is one of the most popular and widely consumed types of fish in the world. It is a versatile fish that can be prepared in various ways, making it a favorite among seafood lovers. In this report, we will take a look at the top 10 cod producing countries in the world in 2025. We will analyze their production volumes, market share, and industry insights to provide a comprehensive overview of the global cod industry.

1. Norway

Production Volume

Norway is the largest producer of cod in the world, with a production volume of over 300,000 metric tons annually. The country’s cold, clear waters provide the perfect breeding ground for cod, making it an ideal location for cod farming.

Market Share

Norway holds a significant market share in the global cod industry, exporting its products to countries all over the world. The high quality and sustainable practices of Norwegian cod producers have helped solidify their position as a leading player in the market.

Industry Insights

Norway’s cod industry is known for its strict regulations and commitment to sustainability. Norwegian cod producers follow strict guidelines to ensure the health and well-being of their fish, which has earned them a reputation for producing some of the highest quality cod in the world.

2. Iceland

Production Volume

Iceland is the second-largest producer of cod in the world, with a production volume of around 200,000 metric tons annually. The country’s cold waters and strong fishing traditions make it a prime location for cod fishing.

Market Share

Icelandic cod is highly sought after in the global market, with its firm texture and mild flavor making it a favorite among chefs and consumers alike. The country’s commitment to sustainable fishing practices has helped boost its market share in recent years.

Industry Insights

Iceland’s cod industry is closely tied to the country’s cultural identity, with fishing playing a central role in Icelandic society. The industry has faced challenges in recent years due to changing environmental conditions, but Icelandic cod producers have adapted by implementing new technologies and practices to ensure the sustainability of their operations.

3. Russia

Production Volume

Russia is a major player in the global cod industry, with a production volume of over 100,000 metric tons annually. The country’s vast coastline and access to rich fishing grounds make it an important source of cod for international markets.

Market Share

Russian cod is known for its high quality and affordability, making it a popular choice for consumers around the world. The country’s large production volumes and competitive prices have helped solidify its position as a key player in the global cod market.

Industry Insights

Russia’s cod industry is characterized by a mix of large-scale commercial fishing operations and small-scale artisanal fishing. The industry has faced challenges in recent years due to overfishing and environmental concerns, but Russian cod producers are working to implement sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of their operations.

4. United Kingdom

Production Volume

The United Kingdom is a significant producer of cod, with a production volume of around 80,000 metric tons annually. The country’s strong fishing tradition and access to rich fishing grounds in the North Sea make it an important player in the global cod industry.

Market Share

British cod is known for its high quality and freshness, with many consumers preferring locally sourced fish. The country’s cod producers have a strong presence in both domestic and international markets, with exports to countries all over the world.

Industry Insights

The UK cod industry has faced challenges in recent years due to changing environmental conditions and regulations. Brexit has also had an impact on the industry, with new trade agreements affecting the country’s ability to export its products to EU countries. Despite these challenges, British cod producers are working to adapt and thrive in an evolving market.

5. China

Production Volume

China is a major player in the global cod industry, with a production volume of over 50,000 metric tons annually. The country’s large population and growing demand for seafood make it an important market for cod producers around the world.

Market Share

Chinese cod is known for its affordability and availability, making it a popular choice for consumers in both domestic and international markets. The country’s large production volumes and competitive prices have helped boost its market share in recent years.

Industry Insights

China’s cod industry is characterized by a mix of large-scale commercial operations and small-scale aquaculture farms. The industry has faced challenges in recent years due to pollution and overfishing, but Chinese cod producers are working to implement sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of their operations.

6. Canada

Production Volume

Canada is a significant producer of cod, with a production volume of around 40,000 metric tons annually. The country’s cold waters and strong fishing traditions make it an ideal location for cod fishing.

Market Share

Canadian cod is known for its high quality and sustainability, with many consumers preferring locally sourced fish. The country’s cod producers have a strong presence in both domestic and international markets, with exports to countries all over the world.

Industry Insights

The Canadian cod industry has faced challenges in recent years due to changing environmental conditions and regulations. Overfishing and habitat destruction have also had an impact on the industry, leading to a decline in production volumes. Canadian cod producers are working to implement sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of their operations.

7. Greenland

Production Volume

Greenland is a significant producer of cod, with a production volume of around 30,000 metric tons annually. The country’s cold waters and access to rich fishing grounds make it an important player in the global cod industry.

Market Share

Greenlandic cod is known for its high quality and sustainability, with many consumers preferring locally sourced fish. The country’s cod producers have a strong presence in both domestic and international markets, with exports to countries all over the world.

Industry Insights

The Greenlandic cod industry is closely tied to the country’s cultural identity, with fishing playing a central role in Greenlandic society. The industry has faced challenges in recent years due to changing environmental conditions and regulations. Greenlandic cod producers are working to implement sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of their operations.

8. United States

Production Volume

The United States is a significant producer of cod, with a production volume of around 20,000 metric tons annually. The country’s strong fishing tradition and access to rich fishing grounds in the North Atlantic make it an important player in the global cod industry.

Market Share

American cod is known for its high quality and freshness, with many consumers preferring locally sourced fish. The country’s cod producers have a strong presence in both domestic and international markets, with exports to countries all over the world.

Industry Insights

The US cod industry has faced challenges in recent years due to changing environmental conditions and regulations. Overfishing and habitat destruction have also had an impact on the industry, leading to a decline in production volumes. American cod producers are working to implement sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of their operations.

9. Faroe Islands

Production Volume

The Faroe Islands are a significant producer of cod, with a production volume of around 15,000 metric tons annually. The country’s cold waters and strong fishing traditions make it an ideal location for cod fishing.

Market Share

Faroe Islands cod is known for its high quality and sustainability, with many consumers preferring locally sourced fish. The country’s cod producers have a strong presence in both domestic and international markets, with exports to countries all over the world.

Industry Insights

The Faroe Islands cod industry is closely tied to the country’s cultural identity, with fishing playing a central role in Faroese society. The industry has faced challenges in recent years due to changing environmental conditions and regulations. Faroe Islands cod producers are working to implement sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of their operations.

10. Spain

Production Volume

Spain is a significant producer of cod, with a production volume of around 10,000 metric tons annually. The country’s strong fishing tradition and access to rich fishing grounds in the North Atlantic make it an important player in the global cod industry.

Market Share

Spanish cod is known for its high quality and freshness, with many consumers preferring locally sourced fish. The country’s cod producers have a strong presence in both domestic and international markets, with exports to countries all over the world.

Industry Insights

The Spanish cod industry has faced challenges in recent years due to changing environmental conditions and regulations. Overfishing and habitat destruction have also had an impact on the industry, leading to a decline in production volumes. Spanish cod producers are working to implement sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability of their operations.
In conclusion, the global cod industry is a diverse and complex market, with each country playing a unique role in the production and distribution of this popular fish. By understanding the key players in the market and their respective strengths and challenges, we can gain valuable insights into the future of the cod industry in 2025 and beyond.

Related Analysis: View Previous Industry Report

Author: Robert Gultig in conjunction with ESS Research Team

Robert Gultig is a veteran Managing Director and International Trade Consultant with over 20 years of experience in global trading and market research. Robert leverages his deep industry knowledge and strategic marketing background (BBA) to provide authoritative market insights in conjunction with the ESS Research Team. If you would like to contribute articles or insights, please join our team by emailing support@essfeed.com.
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