Tuna is the most produced canned fish in Portugal, representing almost half of the total of the canned fish sector, but it is also the most exported, having represented 334 million euros in 2023, and imported, according to ANICP data.
The national production of canned fish in Portugal reached 468 million euros in 2022, “with a production volume of 80,000 tons. This performance represents a growth of 28% in value and 25% in quantity compared to 2021,” revealed the ANICP – National Association of the Canned Fish Industry, in a note sent to Lusa.
Tuna continues to be the main canned food produced, having generated 209 million euros, 45% of the sector’s totalr.
Sardines, crustaceans and mollusks also play an important role in the sector’s production, highlighted the association, in relation to the National Canned Food Day, which is celebrated this Friday.
More than 60% of all production is destined for exportand last year this represented 334 million euros, 10% more than the previous year.
Spain and France are the main export destinations, representing 29% and 24% of the exported volume, respectively.
Regarding the sales price, the USA stands out (9.1 euros per kg), followed by Italy (8.5 euros).
Tuna is also the main exported product, representing 40% of the total, mainly to Spain (48%).
Last year, Portugal imported 289 million euros in canned goods, for a total of 67,000 tons, which is equivalent to an increase of 8% in value and 6% in quantity.
More than half of these imports are canned tuna. Spain is the main supplier (59%).
In 2022, the operating costs of the sector in Portugal amounted to 384 million euros.
During this period, the Gross Value Added (GVA) amounted to 78 million euros and the profit before taxes, interest, depreciation and amortization (EBITDA) to 35 million euros.
The ANICP stated that the The sector “faces increasing difficulties in hiring local labor”which represents a challenge, making talent attraction and retention strategies necessary.
In this sense, canning companies have implemented policies to improve working conditions, which includes a scholarship program for technical and higher education, launched in 2024, aimed at families of low-income workers.
Portugal has 36 species of canned fish and more than 800 references.
This sector adds 3,500 direct jobs, 90% of which are occupied by women.
The National Canned Fish Day, established by resolution of the Assembly of the Republic, aims to recognize the value of this industry and raise awareness about the importance of fishery products.
The date chosen to commemorate this event corresponds to the first distinction awarded to a Portuguese fish canning factory at the closing of the Paris Universal Exhibition of 1855.
Source: Observadora
