Domestic fish production is seeking a new balance

This article is available for reading in Trade magazin 2025/12-2026.01

Strong import pressure

Ede Timmel
managing director
Hungarian Aquaculture and
Fisheries Interbranch
Organisation

In 2024 the volume of Hungarian fish production rose to nearly 29,000 tonnes, which was a more than 16% increase compared to the previous period. The export value remains at around HUF 13bn, while the domestic market is significantly influenced by the strong presence of lower-priced imported fish of marine origin.

“The sector can only remain on a sustainable growth path if production stability is also supported by the market”,

explains Ede Timmel, managing director of the Hungarian Aquaculture and Fisheries Interbranch Organisation.

Regulatory adaptation

In recent years EU sustainability directives and the development programmes available under MAHOP Plus have played a decisive role in the modernisation of farms. Energy efficiency and environmental considerations have become important, while at the same time stricter water law and animal health regulations have put a considerable administrative and financial burden on producers. Domestic measures – including 5% VAT, a water fee of HUF 1,500/ha, and water fee coverage in the event of drought – have significantly improved competitiveness and the “whitening” of the sector.

National measures have substantially enhanced competitiveness and contributed to the increased transparency of the sector

Stronger processing segment

Interest in domestic fish is gradually growing in the catering sector. The market has shifted towards convenience products with higher added value, which is supported by time constraints and lifestyle changes. Online sales and mobile fish sales are growing slowly but steadily. Consumers increasingly value fish products that are easy to prepare and come from reliable sources. There is stable demand for fresh farmed fish, fish soup bases and ready-made fish soups, especially during the holiday season.