HS Code:
Products of American fisheries, including fish, shellfish, other marine animals, spermaceti, and marine animal oils, encompass a wide range of seafood and marine-derived products harvested from U.S. waters. This category includes items that have not been landed in a foreign country, or if landed, were solely for transshipment without any change in condition. These products fall under specific Harmonized System (HS) codes, primarily in Chapters 03 (fish and crustaceans) and 15 (animal or vegetable fats and oils). The U.S. is a major player in the global seafood market, with its fisheries contributing significantly to both domestic consumption and international trade. Key species include salmon, crab, shrimp, and cod, with a focus on sustainable fishing practices driven by regulations like the Magnuson-Stevens Act.
Total Trade Volume
USD 5.2 billion (exports)
Data from 2022
Source
U.S. Census Bureau, NOAA Fisheries, International Trade Centre (ITC)
USD 1.3 billion
25% of total exports of total trade
Increasing
USD 900 million
17% of total exports of total trade
Stable
USD 800 million
15% of total exports of total trade
Decreasing
USD 500 million
10% of total exports of total trade
Increasing
USD 400 million
8% of total exports of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
2.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
7.5% (specific products like processed shellfish in certain markets)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like USMCA)
Growing demand for sustainable seafood
Increased market access for U.S. products certified as sustainable, boosting exports to eco-conscious markets like the EU and Japan.
2021-2023
Shift towards value-added products
Higher export value from processed and packaged seafood (e.g., frozen fillets, ready-to-eat meals) rather than raw products.
2020-2022
Impact of trade tensions with China
Reduced exports to China due to retaliatory tariffs and trade disputes, pushing U.S. exporters to diversify markets.
2019-2022
The United States-Mexico-Canada Agreement (USMCA) has facilitated tariff-free access for many U.S. fishery products to Canada and Mexico, strengthening North American trade ties.
July 2020
Increased trade volume with Canada by 15% since implementation.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) launched new guidelines to enhance sustainability certification for U.S. fisheries, aligning with international standards.
March 2023
Improved market perception and access to premium markets in Europe.
The European Union adjusted import quotas for certain U.S. seafood products like lobster and crab, citing sustainability concerns and market saturation.
September 2022
Potential reduction in export volumes to the EU by 5-10% for affected products.