HS Code:
Jack and horse mackerel (Trachurus spp.) are a group of medium-sized, pelagic fish species commonly found in the Atlantic, Indian, and Pacific Oceans. They are widely harvested for human consumption, fishmeal, and fish oil production. These species are traded globally, primarily in frozen, fresh, or processed forms. The trade of Jack and horse mackerel falls under HS Code 0303 (Fish, frozen, excluding fish fillets and other fish meat) or HS Code 0302 (Fish, fresh or chilled), depending on the product form. They are significant in the seafood market due to their affordability, nutritional value, and use in various cuisines, particularly in Africa, Europe, and Asia.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 1.2 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and FAO Fisheries Statistics
250,000 metric tons
20.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
200,000 metric tons
16.7% of total trade of total trade
Stable
180,000 metric tons
15.0% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
100,000 metric tons
8.3% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
90,000 metric tons
7.5% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
7.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
20% (imposed by certain African and Asian countries to protect domestic markets)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Chile FTA or within regional blocs like ECOWAS)
Rising demand in West Africa
Increased exports to countries like Nigeria and Ghana due to population growth and preference for affordable protein sources
2021-2023
Sustainability concerns
Growing pressure for sustainable fishing practices has led to stricter quotas and certifications like MSC (Marine Stewardship Council), affecting supply chains
2020-2023
Shift to value-added products
Increased processing into fillets, canned products, and fishmeal for export, especially in South American countries
2019-2022
Negotiations to reduce tariffs on frozen mackerel exports to West African countries under Economic Partnership Agreements (EPAs) have progressed, potentially increasing trade volumes.
June 2023
Could lower costs for West African consumers and boost exports from European countries like the Netherlands.
FAO and regional fisheries bodies have issued warnings about overfishing of Jack mackerel stocks in the South Atlantic, prompting stricter quotas in Chile and Peru.
March 2023
May lead to reduced supply and higher prices in the short term, affecting global trade dynamics.
Several major exporters in Chile and Peru achieved MSC certification for sustainable fishing of Jack mackerel, enhancing market access to Europe and North America.
September 2022
Improves competitiveness in high-value markets but increases compliance costs for producers.