The Brazilian fish export market has experienced a surge in value despite a decline in shipped volumes in 2023. According to data published by the Fish and Agriculture Unit of the Brazilian Agricultural Research Corporation (Embrapa), in collaboration with the Brazilian Fishery Research Company (Psicultura), Brazil’s fish exports amounted to $24.7 million, marking a 4% increase in comparison to the year 2022.
The sector, however, witnessed a 20% decrease in the volume of exports, declining from 7,487 tons in 2022 to 6,815 tons in 2023, based on figures provided by the federal government.
According to information from Psicultura, the rise in sales revenue despite the reduced export volume is attributed to a shift in the diversity, or mix, of the exported products.
There was an increase in shipments of fresh fillet meats and a reduction in sales of whole frozen fish. The average price per kilogram of exported fish has risen from $3.49 in the past year to $4.23, an appreciation of 21.2%.
The principal product exported was tilapia and its derivatives, totaling $23.3 million or a 94% contribution to the value. Following tilapia, tambaqui fish exports surged to $798,000, which is an astonishing increase of 809% compared to 2022. The leading destinations for Brazilian fishery exports were the United States (88% of total exports), followed by China (3%), and Japan (2%).
Francisco Medeiros, the president of the Brazilian Fisheries Wealth Union (Peixe BR), emphasized that the increase in export revenue reflects the sector’s efficiency, stating, “Brazil produces high value-added fish, branded with traceability and sustainable production.
The growth in international sales results from the productive efficiency of the companies, as the international market is very demanding in terms of quality.”
This growth in export value, despite a decrease in volume, indicates a strategic adaptation of the Brazilian fish industry to changing market demands and its commitment to quality, which is being well-received in the international markets. The success signals a positive trend for the Brazilian fishery sector as it continues to expand its global footprint.
ANBA
