Introduction – Netherlands’s Seafood Market: A Quantitative Overview
When you think about powerhouse seafood exporters in Europe, the Netherlands should jump right to the top of the list. With over €4 billion in revenue and a network of nearly 300 seafood companies, the Dutch seafood market plays a vital role in the global supply chain. Strategically located with major ports like Rotterdam and fishing hubs in Urk, IJmuiden, and Yerseke, the Netherlands isn’t just about tulips and windmills — it’s a serious player in seafood.
The Dutch fishing fleet, backed by deep-sea trawlers and mussel cutters, supports this thriving sector. In 2023 alone, the Netherlands exported $804 million worth of fresh or chilled fish fillets, primarily to Belgium, Germany, and the U.S.. That’s not all — frozen fish exports (excluding fillets) totaled $327 million, and frozen shrimp and prawns brought in another $385 million.
So, if you’re looking to do business in the seafood space, especially in Europe, the Netherlands gives you a data-backed reason to pay attention. But with hundreds of suppliers, how do you choose the right one? That’s where a data-driven approach — backed by platforms like Freshdi — becomes the secret sauce.
Deep Dive – Key Production, Export Statistics & Market Signals
Let’s talk numbers. The Netherlands isn’t just exporting seafood — they’re doing it with precision, diversity, and scale.
- In 2023, the Netherlands exported:
- 55 million kilograms of fresh fish fillets.
- Nearly $327 million in frozen fish (excluding fillets), with Nigeria leading as the top buyer.
- $385 million worth of frozen shrimp and prawns, mainly to Germany and Belgium.
And these numbers are growing. In 2024, Dutch seafood exports surged by 5%, hitting €3 billion in revenue. Over half of these exports came from domestic production. Countries like France and Israel are increasingly turning to Dutch suppliers, with Israel’s imports rising by €36 million — even with strict kosher standards in place.
What does this tell us? The global demand for Dutch seafood isn’t just stable — it’s expanding. Platforms like Freshdi confirm these insights through RFQ (Request for Quotation) trends, showing increased buyer interest in cod, shrimp, and other premium seafood products.
Top 5 Verified Seafood Suppliers in Netherlands – Top Tier Based on Export Data
Let’s get to the heart of it — the top 5 seafood suppliers in the Netherlands for August 2025. These companies aren’t just big players; they’re verified exporters with strong reputations, certifications, and proven track records.
1. LANDA SEAFOOD
- Specialty: HORECA-focused fresh and frozen seafood.
- Highlights: Known for consistent quality, HACCP-certified, and rated highly by international buyers.
- Why they’re top-tier: LANDA’s partnerships with hotels and restaurants across Europe, plus steady export volumes, make them a go-to.
2. Herikon BV
- Specialty: Premium octopus and cephalopods.
- Highlights: Focused on sustainability, traceability, and EU certification standards.
- Why they’re top-tier: Their baby octopus products have gained traction in Spain, Italy, and France — regions known for picky palates.
3. Visscher Seafood (Now Norwegian Seafood)
- Specialty: Salmon, whitefish, and Nordic specialties.
- Highlights: Recently rebranded following their acquisition of Norwegian Seafood AS.
- Why they’re top-tier: Their cross-border logistics and expanded operations have given them a wider global reach and increased market share.
4. Urk Seafood
- Specialty: Fresh North Sea fish and seafood.
- Highlights: Strong presence in Germany and Belgium; recently expanded trade relations with Alaska.
- Why they’re top-tier: Their dedication to quality and freshness makes them a staple in wholesale and retail channels.
5. Adri & Zoon
- Specialty: Shellfish, particularly oysters and mussels.
- Highlights: Based in Yerseke, the shellfish capital of the Netherlands.
- Why they’re top-tier: Their local harvesting and fast logistics make them a favorite among European chefs.
Dynamic Ranking Note
These rankings are based on export data, buyer reviews, certifications, and visibility on platforms like Freshdi. However, supplier rankings can shift monthly, thanks to Freshdi’s “Supplier of the Month” highlights, which reflect recent activities, RFQ matches, and customer satisfaction metrics.
Market Navigation – Statistical Trends, Pricing Analysis & Export Dynamics
The Dutch seafood scene isn’t static — it’s shaped by shifting demand, seasonal variations, and geopolitical factors.
Export Trends
In 2024:
– Germany continued to be the top buyer.
– France saw a notable 8% increase in Dutch seafood imports, largely driven by cod.
– Israel’s imports spiked €36 million, showcasing Dutch adaptability to kosher requirements.
But not all trends are rosy. Prepared or preserved tuna exports saw a 27.4% drop in 2023 — the second year of decline. This shift suggests evolving consumer preferences and growing competition in that category.
Seasonal Price Shifts
Seafood prices change with the tides — literally.
- In early 2024, a shortage of North Sea shrimp drove up prices domestically.
- Weather conditions and fishing moratoriums influence availability, making forward contracts and historical price analysis crucial tools for buyers.
Platforms like Freshdi help buyers stay ahead by offering price trend dashboards, real-time RFQ data, and historical export stats — so you’re not caught off guard by market swings.
Forecasts
Looking ahead to 2025 and beyond:
– The Dutch seafood market is projected to hit $2.09 billion in revenue.
– The fresh seafood segment alone is forecasted to generate $221.24 million, with a steady 2.98% annual growth through 2030.
That means more opportunities — but also more competition and complexity. Smart procurement decisions will depend on data, timing, and supplier reliability.
Recent Industry Developments You Should Know
1. Trade with Alaska Strengthens
Dutch companies like Urk Seafood are building ties with Alaskan suppliers to diversify sourcing and improve sustainability.
2. Seafood Party 2025
Attracting over 225 guests, this industry event held in Urk showcased the Dutch seafood community’s vibrancy and innovation.
3. Visscher Seafood Rebrands
Their transformation into Norwegian Seafood reflects broader ambitions and a stronger Nordic footprint.
All these developments signal one thing: the Dutch seafood industry is evolving fast, and companies that adapt will thrive.
Conclusion – Leveraging Data for Informed Procurement
The Netherlands stands tall in the global seafood arena — not just because of its production capacity but because of how its businesses leverage data, logistics, and international relationships.
If you’re a buyer, using platforms like Freshdi gives you a major edge. From real-time supplier verification to RFQ trend analysis, you’ll make smarter choices based on hard numbers, not gut feelings.
Buyer Checklist: How to Choose a Dutch Seafood Supplier
- ✅ Does the supplier have verified export records?
- ✅ Are they listed or reviewed on Freshdi or similar B2B platforms?
- ✅ Do they meet international certifications (e.g., HACCP, BRC, MSC)?
- ✅ Do they offer product traceability and sustainability metrics?
- ✅ Are their prices competitive in current market conditions?
Future Outlook
With rising global demand, increasing price volatility, and a growing focus on sustainability, the Dutch seafood market is poised for further transformation. Whether you’re sourcing shrimp, cod, mussels, or octopus, staying updated through platforms like Freshdi ensures you’re not just buying seafood — you’re buying value and peace of mind.
FAQs
1. What is the most exported seafood product from the Netherlands?
Fresh or chilled fish fillets top the list, with exports worth over $800 million in 2023.
2. How can I verify a Dutch seafood supplier?
Use platforms like Freshdi for verified supplier profiles, buyer reviews, and export data insights.
3. Are Dutch seafood suppliers certified for international markets?
Yes, most top suppliers are HACCP, MSC, or BRC certified, ensuring compliance with EU and global standards.
4. Why did tuna exports from the Netherlands decline?
Changing consumer preferences and increased competition led to a 27.4% drop in prepared or preserved tuna exports in 2023.
5. What seafood products are gaining popularity in 2025?
Cod, shrimp, and sustainable shellfish are in high demand — especially in countries like France, Israel, and Germany.
References
- Dutch Fish Industry Facts and Figures
- WITS – Netherlands Fish Fillet Exports 2023
- WITS – Netherlands Frozen Fish Exports
- WITS – Netherlands Frozen Shrimps and Prawns
- Vakblad Voedingsindustrie – Export Growth Report
- IndexBox – Tuna Export Decline
- Shrimp Insider – Market Shortages
- Statista – Seafood Market Forecast
- Urk Seafood News
- Freshdi – Verified B2B Platform
