HS Code:
This category pertains to tuna in airtight containers weighing with their contents not over 7 kg each, and not the product of any insular possession of the United States. The aggregate quantity entered in any calendar year must not exceed 4.8 percent of apparent United States consumption of tuna in airtight containers during the immediately preceding year, as reported by the National Marine Fisheries Service. This specific quota and restriction aim to regulate the import of tuna products to balance domestic production and international trade, ensuring market stability and compliance with trade agreements. The Harmonized System (HS) Code for this category is typically under 1604.14, which covers prepared or preserved tuna, skipjack, and bonito.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 45,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS) and International Trade Centre (ITC)
18,000 metric tons
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
10,000 metric tons
22% of total trade of total trade
Stable
8,000 metric tons
18% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
5,000 metric tons
11% of total trade of total trade
Stable
4,000 metric tons
9% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
6% ad valorem
Highest Rate
12.5% ad valorem (for over-quota imports)
Lowest Rate
0% (under specific trade agreements like USMCA)
Rising demand for sustainable tuna products
Increased focus on eco-labeling and sustainable fishing practices has boosted exports from countries with certified fisheries like Thailand and Vietnam.
2021-2022
Fluctuations in raw tuna supply due to overfishing concerns
Supply chain disruptions and price volatility have affected trade volumes, particularly for smaller exporters like Ecuador.
2020-2022
Growth in private label and value-added tuna products
Retailers in the U.S. are increasingly sourcing processed tuna products, benefiting countries with strong processing capabilities such as the Philippines.
2019-2022
The National Marine Fisheries Service announced a slight adjustment in the quota for tuna imports under this category based on 2022 consumption data, maintaining the 4.8% cap with enhanced monitoring mechanisms.
January 2023
This ensures stricter compliance and may limit over-quota imports, potentially affecting smaller exporters.
A significant portion of Thailandโs tuna fisheries received Marine Stewardship Council (MSC) certification, aligning with U.S. consumer demand for sustainably sourced seafood.
March 2022
Strengthens Thailandโs position as the leading exporter to the U.S. market under this category.
Ongoing discussions between the U.S. and Vietnam aim to reduce tariffs on seafood products, including tuna in airtight containers, under a potential bilateral agreement.
September 2022
Could lead to increased imports from Vietnam if tariffs are lowered or quotas are relaxed.