Exalmar’s Expansion Signals a Shift in Peruvian Fisheries – And What It Means for Global Supply Chains
A 33% surge in sales for Peruvian fishing giant Exalmar in the first half of 2025, reaching US $286.7 million, isn’t just a positive financial report – it’s a bellwether for a rapidly evolving industry. Driven by a massive 315% leap in fish oil transactions and strategic acquisitions like Centinela Fisheries, Exalmar’s performance highlights a critical trend: the increasing consolidation and specialization within the Peruvian fishing sector, with significant implications for global food and feed supply chains.
The Acquisition of Centinela: Building a Fishing Powerhouse
Exalmar’s recent completion of the 100% acquisition of Centinela Fisheries from the Romero Group is a pivotal move. Combining Centinela’s fleet of 11 vessels with Exalmar’s existing 22 creates a substantial fishing capacity. This isn’t simply about scale; it’s about securing access to resources and streamlining operations in a competitive market. The move, greenlit by Peruvian authorities, underscores a broader trend of consolidation as companies seek to enhance efficiency and market share. This consolidation is likely to continue, potentially reshaping the landscape of Peruvian fisheries in the coming years.
Beyond Fishmeal: The Rise of Fish Oil and Direct Human Consumption
While fishmeal remains a significant component of Exalmar’s business, the dramatic growth in fish oil sales is particularly noteworthy. This surge, described by the company as a “post-phenomenon normalization,” suggests a renewed demand for fish oil driven by its applications in nutraceuticals, pharmaceuticals, and increasingly, sustainable aquaculture feed. This shift reflects a broader consumer trend towards health and wellness, and a growing awareness of the benefits of omega-3 fatty acids.
Interestingly, Exalmar also saw positive results in its direct human consumption (CHD) business, particularly with frozen pota (squid) exports. This demonstrates a strategic diversification, reducing reliance solely on indirect consumption products like fishmeal. The success of pota exports highlights the potential for Peruvian fisheries to capitalize on growing global demand for seafood.
Investing in Infrastructure for Future Growth
Exalmar isn’t just focused on acquisitions and sales; the company invested US $9.4 million in the first half of 2025 in improvements and maintenance of its processing plants and vessels. This commitment to infrastructure is crucial for maintaining quality, increasing efficiency, and ensuring sustainable fishing practices. Modernizing facilities and vessels is essential for meeting increasingly stringent international standards and maintaining a competitive edge.
The Impact of Environmental Factors and Sustainability
The Peruvian fishing industry is heavily influenced by environmental factors, particularly the El Niño phenomenon. While Exalmar attributes the fish oil surge to a “post-phenomenon normalization,” the industry remains vulnerable to climate variability. Sustainable fishing practices and responsible resource management are therefore paramount. Companies like Exalmar are under increasing pressure from consumers and regulators to demonstrate their commitment to environmental stewardship. The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) provides valuable resources on sustainable fisheries management.
Looking Ahead: Trends Shaping the Future of Peruvian Fisheries
Several key trends are poised to shape the future of Peruvian fisheries:
- Increased Consolidation: Expect further mergers and acquisitions as companies seek economies of scale and market dominance.
- Diversification of Products: A move beyond traditional fishmeal towards higher-value products like fish oil and direct human consumption seafood will continue.
- Technological Innovation: Investments in advanced fishing technologies, processing techniques, and data analytics will be crucial for improving efficiency and sustainability.
- Focus on Sustainability: Demand for sustainably sourced seafood will drive the adoption of responsible fishing practices and traceability systems.
- Climate Change Adaptation: The industry will need to adapt to the impacts of climate change, including changing ocean temperatures and altered fish migration patterns.
Exalmar’s strategic moves, coupled with these broader industry trends, suggest a dynamic future for Peruvian fisheries. The company’s success isn’t just a story of financial growth; it’s a reflection of a sector adapting to evolving market demands and environmental challenges. What will be the next strategic move for Exalmar, and how will it impact the global seafood market? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
