El Niño Takes Toll on Fishmeal, Fish Oil Production

The global fishmeal and fish oil market is feeling the effects of El Niño, particularly in Peru and Chile. The two countries have been struggling to meet their production targets due to softer catches.

According to IFFO, the Marine Ingredients Organization, cumulative fishmeal output was 49% behind the same period last year, while fish oil output was down 30%. This shortfall is largely attributed to reduced catches in African countries and Northern Europe.

However, there may be some relief on the horizon. Enrico Bachis, Market research Director at IFFO, notes that regions like Asia, which have their peak fishing season in the last quarter of the year, might offset the South American shortfall.

In China, fishmeal production has resumed, but demand for aquafeed is at its seasonal peak. Recent extreme weather events, including typhoons, have disrupted coastal aquaculture operations and elevated production risks.