HS Code:
The 'Pollock other than Alaska pollock' category (HS Code: 030367) includes various species of pollock fish, excluding the well-known Alaska pollock (Theragra chalcogramma). This category encompasses other types of pollock primarily caught in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. These fish are widely used in the seafood industry for fillets, fish sticks, and surimi products. The trade of this category is influenced by sustainable fishing practices, regional quotas, and consumer demand for affordable white fish alternatives.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 250,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and FAO Fisheries Statistics
100,000 metric tons
40% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
60,000 metric tons
24% of total trade of total trade
Stable
30,000 metric tons
12% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
25,000 metric tons
10% of total trade of total trade
Stable
15,000 metric tons
6% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
7.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain developing countries to protect local fisheries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements such as EU-Norway fisheries agreements)
Growing demand for sustainable seafood
Increased certification requirements are pushing exporters to adopt sustainable fishing practices, raising costs but also market value.
2021-2022
Shift towards processed products
Rising consumer preference for ready-to-eat pollock products like fillets and fish sticks has boosted value-added trade.
2020-2022
Impact of geopolitical tensions
Trade restrictions and sanctions on Russian seafood exports have disrupted supply chains, increasing prices in key markets.
2022
The European Union introduced stricter sustainability and traceability requirements for imported seafood, including pollock, effective from mid-2023.
June 2023
Exporters from non-compliant regions may face market access issues, while certified suppliers gain a competitive edge.
Sanctions and trade barriers imposed on Russian seafood exports due to the ongoing conflict have led to a significant reduction in pollock supply to Western markets.
March 2022 onwards
Increased prices and supply shortages in Europe; alternative suppliers like Norway and Iceland are stepping in.
Some countries are experimenting with pollock aquaculture to reduce reliance on wild-caught stocks and meet growing demand.
Late 2022
Potential long-term stabilization of supply, though high initial costs and environmental concerns remain challenges.