Introduction – Switzerland’s Canned Fish Market in Statistical Focus
Switzerland is known for its scenic beauty, precision watches, and chocolate. But when it comes to canned fish, the country isn’t exactly leading the charge on the global stage. In fact, Switzerland’s role in canned fish exports is quite minimal. In 2024, the country exported canned or pouched fish worth about $1.12 million—a figure that represents a remarkable 177.1% increase from the previous year. Yet, when you compare that to the global export value of $33 billion in 2023, it becomes clear that Switzerland is still a small player in this market.
Globally, the heavy hitters in canned seafood exports are China, Thailand, Ecuador, Vietnam, and Spain—with China alone contributing to 26% of the global volume. On the other hand, Switzerland doesn’t even place in the top 20. Most of the country’s fish supply is imported, with domestic production hovering around 2,500 metric tons in 2023 and expected to grow modestly to 2,700 metric tons by 2028.
So, why should businesses care about Switzerland’s canned fish market? Simple: even in a small market, data-driven sourcing can make a huge difference—especially when health, sustainability, and supplier reliability are on the line. Platforms like Freshdi offer a valuable window into verified suppliers, RFQ trends, and market insights that help businesses make informed decisions.
Let’s dive deeper.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Current Demand Data
Switzerland’s canned fish industry is not homegrown—it’s import-driven. About 96% of the country’s fish consumption comes from foreign sources. That’s a massive reliance on imports, especially considering that only 40% of these imports are considered sustainable.
Production & Export Snapshot
- Domestic canned fish production is minimal.
- In 2023, only a few tons of preserved tuna were exported.
- Main export destinations: Italy, France, and Portugal.
- These figures are a drop in the ocean compared to global trade volumes.
Import Dependency
- Thailand is Switzerland’s top supplier of canned tuna.
- Italy and Spain are also significant contributors.
- Consumer demand is shaped by convenience and growing awareness around sustainability.
Demand Signals from Market Platforms
Freshdi’s platform data shows a consistent rise in RFQs (Request for Quotations) for sustainably sourced canned tuna and mackerel products. This indicates a shifting preference among Swiss buyers for certified, traceable, and responsibly sourced products.
Health & Sustainability Concerns
- A study recently found mercury levels in some canned tuna products in Switzerland nearing legal EU limits (1 mg/kg). While still legal, it raises red flags for health-conscious consumers.
- Environmental groups like Greenpeace Switzerland are pushing back against heavy discounting of unsustainable seafood, calling out major retailers for harmful practices.
All of this suggests that while Switzerland may not produce much canned fish, it plays an important role as a quality-conscious, sustainability-driven consumer market.
Top 10 Verified Canned Fish Suppliers in Switzerland – Top Tier Based on Export Data
Finding reliable suppliers in a niche market like Switzerland can be tricky without access to verified data. Fortunately, Freshdi’s supplier intelligence platform offers insights into top-performing B2B partners based on export volumes, certifications, and buyer feedback.
Here are the Top 10 Canned Fish Suppliers in Switzerland for 2025:
- Euroazul Corporation Ltd.
- Known for: Premium canned tuna and sardines
- Markets served: Europe, Middle East
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Certifications: ISO, HACCP, MSC
- Known for: Mediterranean-style canned fish
- Strength: Strong ties with Spanish and Italian producers
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Specialty: Olive oil-packed anchovies and mackerel
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Blue Sea Swiss GmbH
- Focus: Sustainable sourcing
- Notable for: BPA-free packaging and eco-labels
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Markets: Swiss wholesale and retail chains
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AlpFish Distributors AG
- Expertise: Importing high-quality tuna from Southeast Asia
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Added value: Private labeling services for Swiss retailers
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Swiss Canning Co.
- Edge: Small-batch production with artisanal techniques
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Products: Smoked and spiced canned trout
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Helvetia Seafood Traders
- Role: Import/export intermediary
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Strength: Price negotiation and logistics coordination
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OceanHarvest Suisse
- USP: Fair-trade certified tuna and sardines
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Clients: Health food stores and organic chains
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Nordic Fish Supply AG
- Specialization: Scandinavian-style canned fish
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Popular products: Pickled herring and cod liver
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BioMarin Suisse
- Focus: Certified organic canned fish lines
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Market: Premium health-conscious consumers
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AquaPure AG
- Advantage: Mercury-tested, lab-certified products
- Niche: Supplying schools and hospitals with safe canned seafood
Dynamic Ranking Note
Keep in mind that platforms like Freshdi offer dynamic supplier rankings—“Suppliers of the Month” or “Quarter”—based on real-time RFQ volumes, delivery performance, and buyer reviews. So, what’s top today might shift tomorrow based on market activity.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Value Dynamics & Export Dynamics
Understanding market behavior is key to smart procurement. In Switzerland, demand for canned fish isn’t static—it changes with seasons, health trends, and even global events like fishing bans or environmental campaigns.
Canned Fish Variants in Demand
- Tuna remains the most consumed variant by far.
- Sardines & Mackerel are gaining traction due to affordability and omega-3 benefits.
- Anchovies and trout are niche but steadily growing in gourmet and organic circles.
Seasonal Pricing Dynamics
- Prices spike during Lenten season and end-of-year holidays.
- Bulk import deals often close in late summer, aligning with global catch cycles.
What Buyers Should Watch For
- Monitor RFQ volumes on platforms like Freshdi to time purchases.
- Use historical pricing data to negotiate better deals during off-peak months.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Informed Procurement
Switzerland might not be a major canned fish exporter, but it plays a unique role in the global seafood supply chain—as a discerning, health- and sustainability-conscious market. Businesses looking to tap into this space or source from Swiss-based suppliers must rely on data, not guesswork.
The good news? Platforms like Freshdi make it easier than ever. From verified supplier profiles to real-time RFQ trends and export history, Freshdi arms buyers with the insights they need to make smart, confident decisions.
Checklist for Businesses: Choosing a Canned Fish Supplier in Switzerland
- ✅ Check supplier certifications (MSC, HACCP, ISO)
- ✅ Review buyer ratings and export history on Freshdi
- ✅ Ensure traceable and sustainable sourcing
- ✅ Compare seasonal pricing trends before locking deals
- ✅ Confirm mercury and safety compliance for tuna products
Future Outlook
Switzerland’s canned fish market will likely remain import-driven, but expect more emphasis on:
– Sustainably sourced products
– Transparent labeling
– Health-conscious formulations (lower sodium, BPA-free cans)
– Verified supplier traceability
As consumer awareness grows, so does the need for reliable suppliers. Leveraging platforms like Freshdi can help buyers navigate this complex market with confidence.
How Freshdi Empowers Buyers in the Canned Fish Market
- 🔍 Supplier Verification: All suppliers undergo strict background checks.
- 📊 Market Intelligence: Access to RFQ trends, demand analytics, and pricing history.
- 📦 Logistics Support: Get recommendations for freight partners and trade routes.
- 📈 Performance Rankings: Real-time rankings based on actual buyer feedback and delivery metrics.
- 🤝 Direct RFQ Options: Send inquiries directly to top suppliers with one click.
References
- database.mma.gov.mv
- krungsri.com
- reportlinker.com
- wits.worldbank.org
- swissinfo.ch
- indexbox.io
- bluewin.ch
- lemonde.fr
FAQs
1. Is Switzerland a major exporter of canned fish?
No, Switzerland exports a very small quantity of canned fish and mainly relies on imports.
2. Which countries supply most of Switzerland’s canned fish?
Thailand, Italy, and Spain are the top suppliers to Switzerland.
3. What should I look for in a canned fish supplier?
Certifications, sustainability practices, buyer reviews, and export performance are key.
4. Are canned fish products in Switzerland safe to consume?
Generally yes, but some products have been found to contain mercury levels near EU limits. Always check labels.
5. How can I find verified canned fish suppliers in Switzerland?
Use platforms like Freshdi to access verified supplier profiles, RFQs, and market trends.
