HS Code:
Tuna, classified under HS Code 0302 (fresh or chilled) and 0303 (frozen), includes species of the genus Thunnus and Euthynnus (Katsuwonus) pelamis, commonly known as skipjack tuna. This category encompasses a variety of tuna species such as albacore, yellowfin, bigeye, and bluefin, which are critical to global fisheries and aquaculture industries. Tuna is a high-value commodity widely used in raw consumption (sushi and sashimi), canned products, and other processed forms. The trade of tuna is influenced by sustainability concerns, fishing quotas, and international agreements like those under the Regional Fisheries Management Organizations (RFMOs).
Total Trade Volume
Approximately 5.8 million metric tons
Data from 2022
Source
Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) Fisheries Statistics
1.2 million metric tons
20.7% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
0.8 million metric tons
13.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
0.7 million metric tons
12.1% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
0.6 million metric tons
10.3% of total trade of total trade
Decreasing
0.5 million metric tons
8.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
Average Rate
12% ad valorem
Highest Rate
24% (applied by certain countries on processed tuna products)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA)
Rising demand for sustainable and certified tuna
Increased market share for products with eco-labels like MSC, driving higher compliance costs for producers
2021-2023
Growth in canned tuna consumption in developing markets
Boosted exports from processing hubs like Thailand and the Philippines to regions like the Middle East and Africa
2020-2022
Decline in bluefin tuna supply due to overfishing concerns
Higher prices for bluefin tuna, particularly in premium markets like Japan, and a shift towards aquaculture
2019-2023
The European Union introduced reduced tariffs for tuna imports from certain Pacific Island nations under the Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) to promote sustainable fishing.
January 2023
Expected to increase tuna exports from countries like Papua New Guinea and Fiji to the EU market by 15% over the next five years.
A World Trade Organization panel ruled in favor of stricter tuna labeling requirements, supporting consumer information on sustainability and fishing methods.
September 2022
May lead to increased compliance costs for exporters but improve transparency and consumer trust in major markets like the US and EU.
Japan agreed to a further reduction in bluefin tuna fishing quotas as part of international efforts to rebuild stocks under the International Commission for the Conservation of Atlantic Tunas (ICCAT).
November 2022
Likely to drive up prices for bluefin tuna globally while encouraging aquaculture development and alternative species consumption.