HS Code:
Dogfish, scientifically classified under the genus Squalus spp., are a group of small to medium-sized sharks commonly found in temperate and tropical oceans worldwide. They are often traded under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 0302.65 for fresh or chilled dogfish and 0303.75 for frozen dogfish. These species are primarily used for human consumption, fishmeal, and liver oil production (due to high squalene content). Dogfish are a significant part of the global seafood trade, particularly in regions with strong fishing industries, and are subject to sustainability concerns due to overfishing in certain areas.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 50,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
FAO Fisheries and Aquaculture Statistics, UN Comtrade Database
15,000 metric tons
30% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
10,000 metric tons
20% of total trade of total trade
Stable
8,000 metric tons
16% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
5,000 metric tons
10% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
4,000 metric tons
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.2% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12% (applied by certain developing countries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable seafood
Increased focus on certified sustainable dogfish products, pushing exporters to adopt better fishing practices.
2021-2023
Growth in plant-based alternatives
Potential reduction in demand for dogfish as consumers shift to alternative protein sources.
2022-2023
Stricter regulations on shark fishing
Reduced supply in some regions due to tightened quotas and fishing bans, driving up prices.
2020-2022
The European Union revised its fishing quotas for dogfish in the North Atlantic to ensure sustainability, reducing allowable catches by 15% for 2023.
January 2023
Likely to reduce supply from key exporters like Spain and Portugal, potentially increasing prices in the short term.
The United States reported a 10% increase in dogfish exports, driven by demand in Asian markets for processed shark products.
June 2022
Strengthens the US position as a leading exporter and may encourage further investment in sustainable fishing practices.
Several species of dogfish are under review for inclusion in CITES Appendix II to regulate international trade and prevent overexploitation.
March 2023
If listed, trade could face stricter controls, impacting volumes and requiring more documentation for exporters.