HS Code:
The category 'Aquatic invertebrates other than crustaceans and molluscs, live, fresh, chilled, frozen, dried, salted or in brine; smoked aquatic invertebrates other than crustaceans and molluscs, whether or not cooked before or during the smoking process' (HS Code: 0308) includes a variety of aquatic invertebrates such as sea cucumbers, sea urchins, jellyfish, and other similar organisms. These products are traded globally for culinary, medicinal, and industrial purposes, particularly in regions with strong seafood consumption cultures like East Asia. The trade encompasses products in various forms of preservation and preparation, reflecting diverse market demands and processing capabilities.
Total Trade Volume
USD 1.2 billion
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database
USD 450 million
37.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 200 million
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
USD 150 million
12.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 100 million
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
USD 80 million
6.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
12.5%
Highest Rate
35% (imposed by certain developing countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA)
Rising demand for sea cucumbers in Asian markets
Increased export volumes from producing countries like Indonesia and the Philippines, driving price surges
2021-2022
Growing interest in sustainable and ethically sourced aquatic invertebrates
Shift toward certification and traceability, affecting smaller exporters without compliance capabilities
2020-2022
Expansion of aquaculture for jellyfish and sea urchins
Reduced pressure on wild stocks and stabilized supply chains, especially in China and Japan
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter SPS requirements for imported aquatic invertebrates to prevent the spread of aquatic diseases, impacting exporters from Asia.
March 2023
Increased compliance costs for exporters, potential reduction in EU market share for non-compliant countries
China reported a 15% increase in sea cucumber production due to advancements in aquaculture technology, reinforcing its position as the top exporter.
January 2023
Greater market supply may lower global prices, benefiting importers but challenging smaller producers
Several sea cucumber species were added to CITES Appendix II, requiring stricter trade controls to prevent overexploitation.
November 2022
Export restrictions for countries unable to meet sustainability criteria, potential market shifts to certified suppliers