HS Code:
Groupers are a category of marine fish under the family Serranidae, widely valued for their culinary use and found in tropical and subtropical waters. They are traded globally as fresh, frozen, or live fish, primarily for seafood markets and aquaculture. The Harmonized System (HS) Code for groupers typically falls under 0302 (fresh or chilled fish) or 0303 (frozen fish), depending on the product form. This category is significant in international trade due to high demand in regions like Asia, North America, and Europe, though it faces challenges related to overfishing and sustainability.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 200,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Fisheries Statistics and International Trade Centre (ITC) Trade Map
50,000 metric tons
25% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
40,000 metric tons
20% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
30,000 metric tons
15% of global trade of total trade
Stable
20,000 metric tons
10% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
15,000 metric tons
7.5% of global trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5-10% ad valorem
Highest Rate
20% (imposed by certain countries like India for imported frozen fish)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as ASEAN or USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable seafood
Increased focus on aquaculture and certification programs to ensure sustainable fishing practices for groupers, driving up costs but improving long-term supply stability.
2021-2023
Growth in aquaculture production
Countries like Indonesia and China are expanding grouper farming to meet global demand, reducing pressure on wild stocks but introducing concerns over disease and environmental impact.
2020-2022
Increasing live fish trade
High demand in Asian markets for live groupers (especially for restaurants) has boosted trade value, though it poses logistical and ethical challenges.
2019-2023
The European Union introduced stricter import regulations for seafood, including groupers, requiring proof of sustainable sourcing starting in mid-2023.
June 2023
Exporters from developing countries may face higher compliance costs, potentially reducing trade volumes to the EU in the short term.
Indonesia announced a $50 million investment in grouper farming infrastructure to boost production and exports by 20% over the next five years.
March 2023
This could solidify Indonesia's position as the leading exporter, potentially lowering global prices due to increased supply.
A revised trade agreement reduced tariffs on certain seafood products, including groupers, between the US and China, effective from early 2023.
January 2023
This is expected to increase US imports of groupers from China, benefiting Chinese exporters and US consumers with lower prices.