HS Code:
The category of sardines (Sardina pilchardus, Sardinops spp.), sardinella (Sardinella spp.), and brisling or sprats (Sprattus sprattus) falls under HS Code 0302.43 (fresh or chilled) and HS Code 0303.53 (frozen), as well as processed forms under HS Code 1604.13 (prepared or preserved). These small pelagic fish are widely consumed globally, often canned or processed, and are a critical source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids. They are primarily harvested from the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, with significant production in coastal regions. The trade of these fish is driven by demand for affordable seafood, aquaculture feed, and canned products, with key markets in Europe, Africa, and Asia.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 2.5 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, UN Comtrade Database
750,000 metric tons
30% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
500,000 metric tons
20% of global trade of total trade
Stable
300,000 metric tons
12% of global trade of total trade
Decreasing
250,000 metric tons
10% of global trade of total trade
Stable
200,000 metric tons
8% of global trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
8.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
25% (applied by certain African countries to protect local industries)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Morocco Association Agreement)
Rising demand for sustainable seafood
Increased certification requirements (e.g., MSC certification) are pushing exporters to adopt sustainable fishing practices, affecting smaller producers with limited resources.
2021-2023
Growth in canned fish consumption
Driven by affordability and long shelf life, demand for canned sardines has surged in developing economies, boosting exports from Morocco and Thailand.
2020-2022
Climate change impacting fish stocks
Shifting ocean temperatures are affecting sardine populations, leading to reduced catches in traditional fishing grounds like Japan and parts of Europe.
2019-2023
The EU and Morocco renewed their Sustainable Fisheries Partnership Agreement, ensuring continued access to Moroccan waters for EU vessels and stable sardine exports to Europe.
July 2023
Strengthens Morocco's position as a leading exporter while ensuring supply stability for EU markets.
Reports of overfishing of sardinella stocks in West African waters have led to calls for stricter regional regulations, potentially affecting exports from countries like Senegal and Mauritania.
March 2023
May lead to reduced supply and higher prices in African and European markets.
Thailand has invested in new processing facilities to meet growing global demand for canned sardines, targeting markets in the Middle East and Africa.
September 2022
Increases Thailand’s market share and competitiveness in the processed seafood sector.