Fishmongers Promise Price Stability for the Holidays
Hungarian Fishermen Commit to Maintaining Affordable Prices for Christmas
Fishermen in Hungary have made a pledge to keep last year’s fish prices stable during the upcoming festive season, ensuring affordability for consumers. Christmas accounts for a significant 40% of the country’s fish consumption, making it a crucial period for the industry. Despite facing challenges such as extreme weather conditions and rising costs, the industry remains focused on meeting the high demand during this time.
Annual per capita fish consumption in Hungary has increased from 5.7 to 6.7 kilograms, although it still remains one of the lowest in Europe. Márton Nobilis, Secretary of State for Food Economy and Agricultural Training, attributed this growth to initiatives like the Get It! campaign (2013–2020) and announced a new EU-funded promotion worth HUF 700 million (EUR 1.71 million) to further stimulate consumption. He also called on traders to keep margins in check to ensure that Hungarian fish remains affordable for all consumers.
Domestic fish consumption not only supports environmental conservation efforts but also contributes to strengthening Hungary’s economy. Péter Ondré, managing director of the Agricultural Marketing Center, emphasized the role of fishermen in preserving the country’s wetlands. Hungarian fish products adhere to strict safety standards and are sourced through short supply chains. However, the sector faces challenges such as high fish mortality due to extreme summer heat and inadequate compensation for damages caused by protected species like cormorants, impacting exports.
Metro Trading Ltd. plays a significant role in the distribution of Hungarian fish, selling 1,600 tonnes annually, with a third of the fish being Hungarian. Beáta Kápolna, the company’s purchasing director, highlighted key fish species such as carp, trout, perch, and African catfish in the market.
Metro actively promotes broader fish consumption through tastings and campaigns, with most restaurants offering Hungarian fish dishes year-round. Despite obstacles, Hungary’s fishing industry remains dedicated to growth, preserving traditions, and ensuring that fish continues to be a staple on festive tables.
