HS Code:
Sole (Solea spp.) refers to a category of flatfish species primarily found in the North Atlantic and Mediterranean Sea. This fish is highly valued in culinary markets for its delicate flavor and texture. Under the Harmonized System (HS) Code 030223 for fresh or chilled sole and 030333 for frozen sole, this category includes various species such as common sole (Solea solea). The global trade of sole is influenced by factors such as sustainable fishing practices, aquaculture developments, and regional demand, particularly in Europe where it is a premium seafood product.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 45,000 metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and FAO Fisheries Statistics
12,000 metric tons
26.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
9,500 metric tons
21.1% of total trade of total trade
Stable
7,000 metric tons
15.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
5,500 metric tons
12.2% of total trade of total trade
Stable
4,000 metric tons
8.9% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
Average Rate
9.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
15% (applied by certain non-EU countries on European exports)
Lowest Rate
0% (under EU free trade agreements with select partners)
Rising demand for sustainably sourced sole
Increased certification costs for exporters but higher consumer trust and premium pricing in European markets
2021-2022
Growth in aquaculture production of sole
Reduced pressure on wild stocks and stabilization of supply, particularly in Spain and Portugal
2020-2022
Shift in consumer preference towards frozen sole
Extended shelf life and broader market access, benefiting exporters with advanced cold chain logistics
2019-2022
The European Union revised fishing quotas for common sole in the North Sea to ensure sustainability, impacting export volumes from key producers like the Netherlands and France.
January 2023
Short-term reduction in supply but long-term benefits for stock recovery and market stability
A trade agreement reduced tariffs on EU seafood exports, including sole, to Japan, opening new market opportunities for European exporters.
March 2023
Potential increase in export volumes to Asia, diversifying market reliance beyond Europe
Spain announced breakthroughs in sole farming techniques, boosting production capacity and reducing dependency on wild-caught sole.
July 2022
Stabilization of prices and improved supply consistency for global markets