HS Code:
Caviar and caviar substitutes (HS Code: 160431 for caviar and 160432 for caviar substitutes) refer to processed or preserved roe from sturgeon (true caviar) and other fish species (substitutes). True caviar, often considered a luxury delicacy, is primarily sourced from sturgeon species in the Caspian and Black Sea regions. Caviar substitutes are derived from fish like salmon, lumpfish, or trout and are more affordable. This category is a niche but high-value segment in global food trade, driven by demand in luxury markets, fine dining, and gourmet food industries. Trade is influenced by sustainability concerns, overfishing regulations, and aquaculture developments.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $300 million USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map
$90 million USD
30% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$60 million USD
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$45 million USD
15% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
$30 million USD
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$25 million USD
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
15% ad valorem
Highest Rate
30% (in certain developing markets with luxury goods taxes)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU internal trade or USMCA)
Rise in Aquaculture-Produced Caviar
Increased supply from farmed sturgeon, particularly from China and Europe, has reduced prices and made caviar more accessible, though it challenges traditional producers like Iran and Russia.
2020-2022
Growing Demand for Sustainable and Ethical Products
Consumers in North America and Europe are favoring sustainably sourced caviar, boosting certifications and traceability requirements, while impacting wild-caught caviar trade negatively.
2019-2022
Expansion of Caviar Substitutes Market
Affordable substitutes like salmon roe are gaining popularity in Asia and emerging markets, diversifying the category and increasing overall trade volume.
2021-2023
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) introduced stricter export quotas for wild sturgeon caviar to combat overfishing, impacting traditional exporters like Russia and Iran.
March 2022
Shift in market share toward aquaculture producers and potential price increases for premium wild caviar.
China's investment in sturgeon aquaculture has positioned it as the largest exporter of caviar, surpassing traditional producers with competitive pricing and large-scale production.
January 2023
Increased global supply and downward pressure on prices, though quality concerns persist among luxury buyers.
The European Union introduced updated sanitary standards for imported caviar, requiring stricter testing for contaminants and detailed origin documentation.
July 2023
Potential delays and increased compliance costs for exporters, particularly smaller producers outside the EU.