HS Code:
Frog meat, classified under HS Code 0208.90 (other meat and edible meat offal, fresh, chilled or frozen), represents a niche segment of the global meat trade. It is primarily consumed in specific regions where it is considered a delicacy, such as parts of Asia, Europe (notably France), and the Americas. The trade involves both wild-caught and farmed frog legs, with a focus on species like the edible frog (Pelophylax kl. esculentus) and the American bullfrog (Lithobates catesbeianus). The market is influenced by cultural dietary preferences, environmental regulations, and sustainability concerns surrounding amphibian populations.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 10,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and FAO Statistics
4,500 metric tons
45% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
2,000 metric tons
20% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
1,500 metric tons (imports)
15% of total trade of total trade
Stable
1,000 metric tons
10% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
800 metric tons (imports)
8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5-10% ad valorem
Highest Rate
20% (applied by certain countries with strict import controls on exotic meats)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements or for processed frog meat in some regions)
Rising demand in Asia
Increased exports from Southeast Asian countries like Indonesia and Vietnam due to growing middle-class consumption and culinary traditions.
2020-2022
Sustainability concerns
Shift towards farmed frog meat to reduce pressure on wild populations, driven by environmental regulations and consumer awareness.
2018-2022
Fluctuating European demand
Stable but limited demand in countries like France and Belgium, with occasional declines due to changing dietary preferences among younger generations.
2019-2022
The European Union introduced stricter import controls on frog meat to ensure sustainable sourcing, requiring exporters to provide detailed documentation on farming practices.
January 2023
Potential short-term reduction in exports to Europe from non-compliant suppliers, while encouraging investment in sustainable frog farming.
Indonesia announced a government-backed initiative to expand frog farming operations, aiming to boost export capacity and meet growing global demand.
March 2022
Likely to solidify Indonesia's position as the leading exporter, potentially lowering prices due to increased supply.
The Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species (CITES) conducted a review of frog species in trade, leading to recommendations for tighter controls on certain wild-caught varieties.
November 2022
May restrict trade in specific species, pushing the market further towards aquaculture-based production.