Stronger Alaska pollock imports for Germany and France during 2006

Supplies of Alaska pollock fillets to Europe were somewhat stronger in 2006 in contrast to the relatively tighter availability of 2005. This situation is reflected in increased imports in both Germany and France as well as in greater US exports. China strengthened its position as the leading supplier to key European markets, increasing its share of both German and French imports. Import prices in Europe were relatively stable throughout 2006 in dollar terms which meant a decline over the year in euro terms as a result of the strength of this currency.

New high for German imports follows 30% jump

Following a 10% decline in 2005, German imports of Alaska pollock fillets increased by 30% during 2006 to 161 000 tonnes, by far the highest level for the 2002-2006 period. The increase resulted from a more than 50% jump in imports from China to 88 000 tonnes. China’s share of total imports last year at 55% compares with a 47% share the previous year. A higher share was also recorded for the Russian Federation which increased volumes to the German market by 78% to 28 000 tonnes. This increase contrasts with a 30% fall in supplies from the Russian Federation in 2005 and marks the end of a trend which has seen Russian supplies fall from over 60 000 tonnes in 2001.

Increases from both origins more than balanced a 16% fall in German imports, to 39 000 tonnes, from the USA which follows an 8% decline in 2005. The increasing Chinese share of German imports in recent years has meant a declining US share, down from 37% in 2004 to 24% last year.

China increases share of French fillet imports

Similar import trends were evident in the French Alaska pollock market last year with increases in fillet sales from both China and the Russian Federation but a decline in volumes from the USA. After a 13% drop in 2005, total French Alaska pollock fillet imports returned to the 2004 level with a 12% increase to just over 40 000 tonnes. China maintained its number one supplier position with a 30% increase to 19 000 tonnes while the Russian Federation doubled volumes to over 4 000 tonnes. As in Germany, imports from the USA declined, falling 14% to 11 000 tonnes.

In contrast to European trade data, US figures are showing a more positive trend for Alaska pollock fillet exports from the USA during 2006. Total exports increased 9% (to 88 000 tonnes) compared to 2005, with sales to Germany, the largest market, up 23% (to 44 000 tonnes) and sales to France up 13% (to 7 000 tonnes).

By Gerry O’Sullivan (GLOBEFISH)
© FAO GLOBEFISH 2006