HS Code:
The category of Tunas, skipjack tuna, and bonito (Sarda spp.) under HS Code 0302 (fresh or chilled) and 0304 (frozen fillets and other fish meat) includes various species of tuna and related fish that are significant in global seafood trade. These species are widely consumed across the world, either fresh, frozen, or canned, and are a staple in many cuisines, particularly in sushi and sashimi dishes. The trade of these products is driven by high demand in markets like Japan, the United States, and the European Union, with supply often originating from tropical and subtropical waters.
Total Trade Volume
Approximately $25 billion USD
Data from 2022
Source
United Nations Comtrade Database and FAO Fisheries Statistics
$3.5 billion USD
14% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$2.8 billion USD
11.2% of total trade of total trade
Stable
$2.2 billion USD
8.8% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.9 billion USD
7.6% of total trade of total trade
Increasing
$1.7 billion USD
6.8% of total trade of total trade
Stable
Average Rate
5.5% ad valorem
Highest Rate
24% (applied by some developing countries for processed tuna products)
Lowest Rate
0% (under free trade agreements like EU-Japan EPA or CPTPP)
Rising demand for sustainably sourced tuna
Increased certification and traceability requirements are pushing suppliers to adopt sustainable fishing practices, impacting small-scale fishers who may lack resources for compliance.
2021-2023
Growth in canned tuna consumption
Due to its affordability and long shelf life, canned tuna demand has surged, especially during economic downturns and post-COVID stockpiling behaviors.
2020-2022
Shift towards aquaculture-based tuna
Innovations in tuna farming are reducing pressure on wild stocks, though high costs and environmental concerns remain barriers to widespread adoption.
2019-2023
The European Union reduced tariffs on canned tuna imports from certain Southeast Asian countries under the Generalized Scheme of Preferences (GSP), boosting trade volumes.
January 2023
Increased competitiveness for exporters like Thailand and the Philippines in the EU market, potentially shifting trade dynamics away from traditional suppliers.
The United States initiated an anti-dumping investigation into frozen tuna fillets from Vietnam, alleging unfair pricing practices.
March 2023
Possible imposition of duties could reduce Vietnamese tuna exports to the US, benefiting competitors like Indonesia and the Philippines.
The Parties to the Nauru Agreement (PNA) implemented stricter controls on tuna fishing in the Western and Central Pacific, aiming to ensure sustainable stock levels.
July 2022
Potential short-term supply reductions but long-term benefits for global tuna stocks and market stability.