The 11th Fish Congress – one of the most important events in the Polish fishing and fish processing industry – took place in Sopot on 3–4 March 2026. The event was partnered by Międzynarodowe Targi Gdańskie, the organiser of the POLFISH trade fair, which actively supports the development of the sector and the exchange of knowledge between representatives of business, science and government.
This year's Congress brought together experts from the fish market, representatives of public administration, producers, processors, and suppliers of modern technologies for the sector. The event's programme focused on current market challenges, development prospects for fish processing, logistics, and technological innovations.
The Congress programme featured numerous debates and speeches dedicated to the most important challenges facing the fishing sector. The voices of business leaders were strongly heard as they presented a practical perspective on the industry's situation from the viewpoint of daily business management. Discussions covered, among other things, rising operating costs, changes in supply chains, staffing issues, and the need to adapt to dynamically changing market conditions.
An important element of the programme was also innovation and new technologies in fish processing. Participants discussed the implementation of modern production solutions, process automation, and the effective commercialisation of innovative fish products. Experts emphasised that investments in technological development are becoming one of the key factors in building a competitive advantage in the market today.
The economics of fish processing traditionally occupied an important position. During the panels, current production costs, the profitability level of companies, and the possibilities for financing investments were analysed. Experts indicated that despite the difficult economic situation and challenges related to raw material availability, Polish fish processing maintains a stable position and continues to develop its export potential.
Presentations on market analysis and consumer behaviour also generated significant interest among participants. The latest data on the FMCG market, retail sales trends, and the changing purchasing preferences of Poles were discussed. Experts highlighted the growing importance of convenient, healthy, and ready-to-eat products, as well as the increasing significance of online sales. At the same time, traditional fish products, such as herring and carp, continue to hold a strong position in consumers' baskets.
An important area of discussion also involved issues related to the import of fish raw materials and global market trends. Participants analysed the situation on the global fish and seafood markets, changing import directions, and the impact of the geopolitical situation on supply security and raw material prices.
The programme also included legal topics. Experts discussed new regulations concerning the fishing industry, issues related to environmental requirements, reporting, and food safety. The congress became a space for exchanging experiences and practical advice on adapting business activities to changing regulations.
Systemic challenges affecting the future of the sector were also discussed, such as the demographic situation, employee availability, and rising energy costs resulting from energy policy. Discussions showed that the fishing industry is increasingly feeling the impact of economic and social changes, which require long-term planning and cooperation across the entire sector.
The solemn opening of the Congress was conducted by the Secretary of State at the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, Jacek Czerniak, who emphasised the significance of the European Fisheries Fund as a key tool supporting the sector's development. In his speech, he highlighted the growing importance of aquaculture and the need for further support for research and development of modern, more ecological fish farming and fishing methods.
Logistics and sustainable development were also important themes at the Congress. During a presentation dedicated to salmon transport, modern solutions based on reusable transport containers were showcased, which significantly reduce CO2 emissions and improve cooling efficiency and the quality of the raw material transported. Discussions on ecology and the optimisation of logistics processes showed that the fish industry is increasingly focusing on innovations supporting sustainable development.
There was also no shortage of topics related to modern fish cooling methods and improving raw material quality. Scientific experts presented the latest technological solutions that could find application in processing plants and contribute to increasing production efficiency.
The Fishery Congress in Sopot was an excellent opportunity for exchanging experiences, building business relationships, and discussing the future of the fishery industry in Poland and Europe.
