Talking Points
A preliminary 2025 report from the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador reveals the province's fisheries and aquaculture sector generated a record $2.11 billion in market value. Wild fisheries contributed $1.66 billion from 230,323 tonnes of landings, while aquaculture added $453 million with 37,480 tonnes produced.
- Snow crab led the wild fishery with $1 billion, followed by shrimp, lobster, and cod.
- Atlantic salmon and steelhead trout were the main cultured species, producing 30,567 tonnes and 3,648 tonnes, respectively.
- The industry supported over 16,900 jobs, making it a key private-sector employer in the province.
This milestone underscores the economic significance of the seafood industry in Newfoundland and Labrador, highlighting its role in supporting local communities and enhancing the province's reputation for quality seafood products.
A preliminary 2025 report released by the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador says the province’s combined fisheries and aquaculture sector generated $2.11 billion in market value, one of the highest totals on record.
Wild fisheries accounted for $1.66 billion in market value from 230,323 tonnes of landings, while aquaculture generated $453 million with 37,480 tonnes produced at licensed sites across the province.
Snow crab led the wild fishery, accounting for $1 billion, followed by shrimp, lobster and cod. Atlantic salmon and steelhead trout are the primary salmonid species cultured in the province, with production totalling 30,567 tonnes and 3,648 tonnes, respectively.
“Our seafood industry continues to be a major economic driver for Newfoundland and Labrador, supporting workers, families and communities throughout the province. Surpassing $2 billion in market value is a significant milestone that reflects the strength of our local fishing and aquaculture industries as well as the global reputation of our quality seafood products,” said Loyola O’Driscoll the province’s minister of Fisheries and Aquaculture.
The industry also supported more than 16,900 jobs in 2025, including 9,710 registered harvesters, 6,703 fish processing workers, and 584 aquaculture employees, making it one of the largest private-sector employers in the province.
Newfoundland and Labrador exported about $1.75 billion, with the United States buying the largest share at $1.26 billion. China ranked second at $221 million, followed by the United Kingdom, Denmark, and Japan.
