Irish people are eating more fish because they believe it is healthier, the fisheries board said in its annual report today.
Last year the consumer market was worth €382 million (£285 million) - a rise of 12 per cent on 2006. Bord Iascaigh Mhara (BIM) attributed the increase to a marketing campaign to promote the health benefits of seafood.
When exports are added, the value of Irish fish sales in 2007 was €803 million (£599 million), an increase of 6 per cent on 2006.
France and Britain are the leading buyers of Irish fish exports, and emerging markets like Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong, China, Nigeria and Egypt are also important.
Domestic seafood sales to the retail sector increased by 7 per cent to €169 million (£126 million), while pubs and restaurants purchased €213 million (£159 million) worth - up 5 per cent.
BIM chief executive Jason Whooley said: "While the growth in exports is modest, it is pleasing to see Irish seafood holding its own in traditional markets while also enjoying a significant increase in sales in non-traditional markets such as Asia and Africa."
Sales to non-traditional markets of Japan, South Korea, Hong Kong and China topped €20 million and are expected to grow further.
BIM said it gave grants worth €6.56 million to 90 aquaculture firms during 2007.