October 21, 2005

USDA: Portugal fishery products annual 2005

Portuguese seafood imports in calendar year (CY) 2006 is likely to surpass the 374,000 metric tons (MT) imported (estimate) in CY 2005, but under the record 384,000 MT set in CY 2003. 

According to the U.S. census, during January/July 2005, the U.S. shipped $ 25.0 Million worth of seafood products into Portugal ($ 23.3 Million during January/July 2004). U.S. seafood exports into Portugal consist traditionally of frozen, and salted wet cod for processing. Salmon and fish eggs are small developing niches.

U.S. exports of several fish-for-further processing categories, including cod, continue to benefit from tariff rate quotas and a tariff suspension regime implemented by the European Union (EU).  

The local catch continues to be negatively affected by declining fish stocks, and high energy costs. Local authorities are optimistic that the EU can address these problems with a new fish-recovery plan, and with new financial support to be conveyed through the 2007-13 European Fisheries Fund (EFF), currently under debate in Brussels.

For the full USDA report, click here.