The mood was not good when IntraFish called exporters Friday afternoon, though one of the three players is optimistic for the future.

“It’s been a difficult end to the week, with big problems in the Russian market, meaning salmon supposed to be sold to Russia was going to the EU market," said one exporter.

“Prices fell NOK 4 (€0.46/$0.59) for all sizes -- it’s compelely hopeless,” he said.

The player is concerned the economic crisis is affecting the salmon industry.

“Now reality kicks in -- we have waited for this.