Prepared by: 

McDowell Group

Wholesale 

Market Profiles 

for Alaska Groundfish 

and Crab Fisheries

May 2016
Authors and Contributions:

From NMFS-Alaska Fisheries Science Center: Ben Fissel (PI, project oversight, project design, and editor), Ron 

Felthoven (project oversight, project design), Brian Garber-Yonts (editor). From McDowell Group, Inc.: Jim Calvin 

(project oversight and editor), Andy Wink (lead author/analyst), Stephanie Warpinski (author/analyst), Garrett 

Evridge (author/analyst), Dan Lesh (author/analyst). From Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission: Bob Ryznar 

(project oversight and sub-contractor management), Jean Lee (data compilation and analysis)

This report was produced and funded by the National Marine Fisheries Service’s Alaska Fisheries Science Center. 

Funding was awarded through competitive contracts to the Pacific States Marine Fisheries Commission and 

McDowell Group, Inc.

The analysis was conducted during the summer and fall of 2015, based primarily on 2014 harvest and market 

data. A final review by Alaska Fisheries Science Center staff was completed in February 2016 and the document 

was finalized in March 2016. Data throughout the report was compiled in July-Sept. 2015. Revisions to 

source data after this time may not be reflected in this report. Typically, revisions to economic f﻿isheries data 

are not substantial and data presented here accurately reflect the trends in the analyzed markets. For data 

sourced from NMFS and the Alaska Fisheries Information Network (AKFIN) the reader should refer to 

the Economic Status Report of the Groundfish Fisheries Off Alaska, 2014 and Economic Status Report of 

the BSAI King and Tanner Crab Fisheries Off Alaska, 2014 for the official and most recent data publicly 

available at (http://www.afsc.noaa.gov/REFM/Socioeconomics/SAFE/default.php). 

The findings and conclusions in the paper are those of the author(s) and do not necessarily represent the 

views of the National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA.

Reference to trade names does not imply endorsement by the National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA.

All images are for illustrative and informational purposes only and their use does not imply 

endorsement by the National Marine Fisheries Service, NOAA. With regards to images obtained 

through the World Wide Web (e.g., Wikipedia, Wikimedia) every attempt has been made to comply 

with the stated use standards and give appropriate attribution. The National Marine Fisheries Service, 

NOAA, is a not for profit organization.

This document should be cited as follows:

Alaska Fisheries Science Center. 2016. Wholesale market profiles for Alaska groundfish and crab 

fisheries. 134 p. Alaska Fish. Sci. Cent., NOAA, Natl. Mar. Fish. Serv., 7600 Sand Point Way NE, 

Seattle WA 98115.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • iii

Table of Contents

Table of Contents........................................................................................................................................iii

List of Tables .................................................................................................................................... v

List of Figures..................................................................................................................................vii

Executive Summary...............................................................................................................ix

Key Markets for Alaska Groundfish and Crab.....................................................................xi

Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations............................................................................................... xiv

Abbreviations and Acronyms.........................................................................................................xiv

Glossary of Terms ...........................................................................................................................xv

Global Groundfish Production and Key Markets..................................................................................1

Alaska Groundfish Production and Market Summary ..................................................................... 1

Global Whitefish and Other Marine Fish Production ...................................................................... 1

Alaska’s Position in the Global Whitefish Market............................................................................ 3

Summary of Key Alaska Groundfish Markets .................................................................................. 5

Wholesale Market Profiles for Alaska Pollock Products.......................................................................7

Fishery Summary.............................................................................................................................. 7

Alaska Pollock Production................................................................................................................ 9

Wholesale Market Profile of Alaska Pollock Fillets........................................................................ 13

Wholesale Market Profile of Alaska Pollock Surimi....................................................................... 23

Wholesale Market Profile of Alaska Pollock Roe........................................................................... 30

Wholesale Market Profile of Alaska H&G Pollock.......................................................................... 35

Global Pollock Production and Competing Supply ........................................................................ 39

Wholesale Market Profile for Pacific Cod..........................................................................................42

Fishery Summary............................................................................................................................ 42

Production Summary ..................................................................................................................... 44

Production Volume and Value of H&G and Fillets......................................................................... 45

Product Description and Supply Chain of H&G and Fillets............................................................ 47

Key Markets for Pacific Cod ........................................................................................................... 50

Global Production and Competing Supply..................................................................................... 54

Wholesale Market Profile for Yellowfin Sole.....................................................................................57

Fishery Summary............................................................................................................................ 57

Product Description and Supply Chain .......................................................................................... 58

Production Volume and Value....................................................................................................... 59

Wholesale Market Profile for Rock Sole............................................................................................60

Fishery Summary............................................................................................................................ 60

Product Description and Supply Chain .......................................................................................... 61

Production Volume and Value....................................................................................................... 62

Key Markets for Alaska Sole Species.............................................................................................. 63

Global Production and Competing Supply..................................................................................... 67

Wholesale Market Profile for Atka Mackerel ....................................................................................69

Fishery Summary............................................................................................................................ 69

Product Description and Supply Chain .......................................................................................... 71

Production Volume and Value....................................................................................................... 71

Key Markets for Atka Mackerel ..................................................................................................... 72

Global Production and Competing Supply..................................................................................... 73

Wholesale Market Profile for Pacific Ocean Perch.............................................................................75

Fishery Summary............................................................................................................................ 75

Product Description and Supply Chain .......................................................................................... 76

Production Volume and Value....................................................................................................... 77
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • iv

Key Markets for Pacific Ocean Perch............................................................................................. 78

Global Production and Competing Supply..................................................................................... 80

Wholesale Market Profile for Sablefish.............................................................................................81

Fishery Summary............................................................................................................................ 81

Product Description and Supply Chain .......................................................................................... 83

Production Volume and Value....................................................................................................... 84

Key Markets for Alaska Sablefish................................................................................................... 86

Global Production and Competing Supply..................................................................................... 89

Wholesale Market Profile for Pacific Halibut.....................................................................................90

Fishery Summary............................................................................................................................ 90

Product Description and Supply Chain .......................................................................................... 91

Production Volume and Value....................................................................................................... 93

Key Markets for Pacific Halibut...................................................................................................... 94

Global Production and Competing Supply..................................................................................... 96

Wholesale Market Profile for Ancillary Products...............................................................................98

Key Products Analysis............................................................................................................................ 100

Fish Meal...................................................................................................................................... 101

Fish Oil.......................................................................................................................................... 104

Other Groundfish Ancillary Products........................................................................................... 107

Wholesale Market Profile for Snow Crab ........................................................................................109

Fishery Summary ................................................................................................................................... 109

Product Description and Supply Chain ........................................................................................ 111

Production Volume and First Wholesale Value ........................................................................... 112

Production Analysis...................................................................................................................... 114

Key Markets for Snow Crab ......................................................................................................... 115

Global Production and Competing Supply................................................................................... 118

Wholesale Market Profile for King Crab..........................................................................................120

Fishery Summary ................................................................................................................................... 120

Product Description and Supply Chain ........................................................................................ 122

Production Volume and First Wholesale Value ........................................................................... 123

Production Analysis...................................................................................................................... 125

Key Markets for King Crab ........................................................................................................... 126

Global Production and Competing Supply................................................................................... 128

References..........................................................................................................................131
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • v

List of Tables

Executive Summary Tables

Executive Summary Table 1. Average First Wholesale Value per Metric Ton, 2010-2014................................................................xi

Executive Summary Table 2. Primary Sales of First Wholesale Alaska Groundfish and Crab 

Products by Market, 2010-2014 ...............................................................................................................................................xi

Executive Summary Table 3. Alaska Groundfish and Crab Production and Market Summary, 2014...............................................xii

Executive Summary Table 4. Changes in Relevant Currency Exchange Rates, October 2013 vs. October 2015............................. xiii

Tables

Table 1. Alaska Groundfish Production and Market Summary, 2014 ............................................................................................... 1

Table 2. Global Whitefish and Other Marine Fish Species Production (mt), 2013............................................................................ 2

Table 3. Imports of Tilapia and Pangasius Products, United States and Europe vs. Other Markets, 2012-2014.............................. 5

Table 4. Wholesale Sales of Alaska Groundfish Meat Products (mt), 2014 ...................................................................................... 6

Table 5. Summary Profile of Alaska Pollock Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014................................................................... 7

Table 6. Alaska Pollock Harvest Volume in Federal and State Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014 ................................................................ 8

Table 7. Production Volumes and Recovery Rates for Common Alaska Pollock Products, 2014.................................................... 10

Table 8. Alaska Pollock Production Composition, by First Wholesale Volume, 2005-2014 ............................................................ 11

Table 9. Alaska Pollock Production Composition, by First Wholesale Value, 2005-2014................................................................ 12

Table 10. Unit Value per Metric Ton for Major Alaska Pollock Products, 2005-2014..................................................................... 12

Table 11. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Pollock Fillets, $Millions .................................................................................................. 16

Table 12. Alaska Pollock Fillet Unit Value per Metric Ton and Production Composition, 2010-2014............................................. 16

Table 13. Sales of Alaska Pollock Fillets to Key Markets (mt), 2010-2014 ...................................................................................... 17

Table 14. European Imports of Pollock Fillets from Major Producers (mt), 2010-2014 ................................................................. 19

Table 15. Estimated U.S. Pollock Fillet Market Supply (mt), 2010-2014......................................................................................... 21

Table 16. Brazil Imports of Frozen Pollock and Salted/Dried Fish from China and United States................................................... 22

Table 17. Pollock Fillet Production from Alaska and Russia (mt), 2010-2014................................................................................. 23

Table 18. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Pollock Surimi, $Millions ................................................................................................. 25

Table 19. U.S. Exports of Alaska Pollock Surimi by Country (mt), 2010-2014................................................................................. 26

Table 20. Japan Surimi Imports from Major Producers (mt), 2010-2014 ....................................................................................... 27

Table 21. Total and Unit Value of Japan Surimi Imports, 2010-2014.............................................................................................. 28

Table 22. Global Surimi Production (mt), 2010-2014 ..................................................................................................................... 29

Table 23. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Pollock Roe, $Millions...................................................................................................... 31

Table 24. Exports of Alaska Pollock Roe by Country (mt), 2010-2014 ............................................................................................ 33

Table 25. Japan Pollock Roe Imports (mt), 2010-2014 ................................................................................................................... 33

Table 26. Value of Japan Pollock Roe Imports, 2010-2014 ............................................................................................................. 34

Table 27. South Korean Pollock Roe Trade (mt), 2012-2014 .......................................................................................................... 35

Table 28. First Wholesale Value, Frozen H&G Alaska Pollock, $Millions........................................................................................ 36

Table 29. Imports of Alaska H&G Pollock by Country (mt), 2012-2014 .......................................................................................... 38

Table 30. China Imports of Frozen H&G Pollock by Country (mt), 2012-2014................................................................................ 38

Table 31. Chinese Re-exports of Frozen Alaska Pollock Fillets, by Market, 2014............................................................................ 39

Table 32. Global Pollock Harvest by Major Producer (mt), 2010-2014........................................................................................... 40

Table 33. Competing Whitefish Supply Trends............................................................................................................................... 41

Table 34. Summary Profile of Pacific Cod Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 .................................................................... 42

Table 35. Pacific Cod Harvest Volume for Federal and State Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014................................................................ 43

Table 36. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Pacific Cod, $Millions....................................................................................................... 44

Table 37. Alaska Pacific Cod Production Volume and First Wholesale Value, by Region, 2014...................................................... 46

Table 38. Common Pacific Cod Products, Alaska Production, and Recovery Rates, 2014 .............................................................. 47

Table 39. Sales of H&G Alaska Pacific Cod to Key Markets (mt), 2010-2014.................................................................................. 51

Table 40. Sales of Alaska Pacific Cod Fillets to Key Markets (mt), 2010-2014 ................................................................................ 51

Table 41. Total Cod Imports into U.S. Market, Volume and Value, 2010-2014 .............................................................................. 52

Table 42. Total Imports and Price/kg for Cod Fillets into the U.S. Market, 2012-2014 .................................................................. 52

Table 43. Primary Export Markets for Chinese Twice-Frozen Cod Fillets (mt), 2012-2014............................................................. 53

Table 44. Alaska Pacific Cod Export Volume to Major Asian Markets (mt), 2010-2014.................................................................. 53

Table 45. European Imports of Cod Fillets from Major Producers (mt), 2012-2014....................................................................... 54

Table 46. Major Cod Producing Nations (Thousands mt), 2012-2014 ............................................................................................ 55

Table 47. Summary Profile of Yellowfin Sole Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014............................................................... 57

Table 48. Yellowfin Sole Harvest Volume in Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014............................................................................. 58

Table 49. First Wholesale Value of Alaska Yellowfin Sole, in $Millions........................................................................................... 59

Table 50. Summary Profile of Rock Sole Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 ...................................................................... 60

Table 51. Rock Sole Harvest Volume in Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014.................................................................................... 61

Table 52. Alaska Rock Sole Production Volume and Value, 2014 ................................................................................................... 62
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • vi

Table 53. U.S. Yellowfin Sole Exports by Major Country (mt), 2013-2014...................................................................................... 64

Table 54. U.S. Rock Sole Exports by Major Country (mt), 2013-2014............................................................................................. 64

Table 55. China Flatfish Exports, by Value and Volume, 2012-2014............................................................................................... 64

Table 56. U.S. Rock Sole Exports to Japan (mt), 2010-2014............................................................................................................ 65

Table 57. Summary Profile of Atka Mackerel Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 .............................................................. 69

Table 58. Atka Mackerel Harvest Volume in Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014 ............................................................................ 70

Table 59. Atka Mackerel TACs in All Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2016......................................................................................... 71

Table 60. First Wholesale Value of Atka Mackerel, in $Millions, 2005-2014 .................................................................................. 72

Table 61. Alaska Atka Mackerel Exports by Major Country (mt), 2010-2014 ................................................................................. 72

Table 62. Summary Profile of Pacific Ocean Perch Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 ...................................................... 75

Table 63. Pacific Ocean Perch Harvest Volume in Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014.................................................................... 76

Table 64. Pacific Ocean Perch TACs in All Alaska Federal Fisheries (mt), 2012-2016..................................................................... 76

Table 65. First Wholesale Value of Alaska Rockfish Species, in $Millions, 2005-2014.................................................................... 78

Table 66. Alaska Rockfish Exports by Major Country (mt), 2014 .................................................................................................... 79

Table 67. Japan Imports of Rockfish by Major Trading Partner (mt), 2013 and 2014..................................................................... 80

Table 68. Summary Profile of Sablefish Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 ....................................................................... 81

Table 69. Sablefish Harvest Volume for Federal and State Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014................................................................... 82

Table 70. Common Sablefish Products, 2014 Alaska Production Volume, and Recovery Rates (Pct.)............................................ 83

Table 71. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Sablefish, $Millions.......................................................................................................... 84

Table 72. Alaska Sablefish First Wholesale Volume and Value by Top Ports, 2014 ........................................................................ 86

Table 73. U.S. Sablefish Exports to Global Markets, 2014 .............................................................................................................. 86

Table 74. Japan Frozen H&G Sablefish Imports, by Major Trade Partner, 2009-2014.................................................................... 87

Table 75. Estimated U.S. Sablefish Market Supply (mt), 2010-2014............................................................................................... 88

Table 76. Summary Profile of Pacific Halibut Wholesale Production, 2014.................................................................................... 90

Table 77. Alaska Commercial Halibut Landings, in Metrics Tons, 2010-2014................................................................................. 91

Table 78. Common Halibut Products: 2014 Alaska Production Volume and Recovery Rates (Pct.) ............................................... 92

Table 79. Alaska Halibut First Wholesale Volume and Value by Top Ports/Regions, 2014............................................................. 94

Table 80. Estimated U.S. Halibut Market Supply (mt), 2010-2014 ................................................................................................. 96

Table 81. Summary Profile of Ancillary Products Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014......................................................... 98

Table 82. First Wholesale Value and Ancillary Products as Percent of Total Wholesale Value, 2005-2014 ................................... 99

Table 83. Alaska Groundfish Fish Meal First Wholesale Value, in $Millions, 2005-2014.............................................................. 102

Table 84. First Wholesale Value per Metric Ton of Alaska Fish Meal Products, by Species, 2014................................................ 102

Table 85. Exports of Alaska Fish Meal, 2010-2014........................................................................................................................ 103

Table 86. Total First Wholesale Value of Alaska Groundfish Oil Production, in $Millions, 2005-2014 ......................................... 105

Table 87. First Wholesale Value of Select Ancillary Products, in $Millions, 2010-2014................................................................ 107

Table 88. Summary Profile of Alaska Snow Crab Wholesale Production and Markets................................................................. 109

Table 89. Alaska Snow Crab Harvest/TAC for Federal and State Fisheries, in Millions lb., 2011-2016 ......................................... 111

Table 90. Alaska Snow Crab Volume and Wholesale Value by Region, 2014................................................................................ 113

Table 91. Volume and Wholesale Value of Snow Crab Products, 2014 ........................................................................................ 114

Table 92. First Wholesale Value of Snow Crab Sections, in $Millions, 2005-2014........................................................................ 115

Table 93. Estimated Sales of Alaska Snow Crab to Key Markets, in Millions lb., 2010-2014 ........................................................ 115

Table 94. Estimated U.S. Snow Crab Market Supply, in Millions lb., 2010-2014 .......................................................................... 116

Table 95. Japanese Imports of Snow Crab, 2010-2014................................................................................................................. 117

Table 96. Summary Profile of Alaska King Crab Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014......................................................... 120

Table 97. Alaska King Crab Harvest/TAC in Federal and State Fisheries, in Millions lb., 2010-2015............................................. 122

Table 98. King Crab Section Sizing ................................................................................................................................................ 122

Table 99. Alaska King Crab First Wholesale Volume and Value by Region, 2014.......................................................................... 124

Table 100. Production Volume and First Wholesale Value of King Crab Products, 2014.............................................................. 125

Table 101. First Wholesale Value of Alaska King Crab Sections, in $Millions, 2004-2014 ............................................................ 125

Table 102. Estimated Sales of Alaska King Crab to Key Markets, in Millions lb., 2010-2014 ........................................................ 126

Table 103. Estimated U.S. King Crab Market Supply, in Millions lb., 2010-2014 .......................................................................... 127

Table 104. Japanese Imports of King Crab, 2010-2014................................................................................................................. 128
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • vii

List of Figures

Executive Summary Figures

Executive Summary Figure 1. Composition of Total First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Seafood, by Species, 2014 ......ix

Executive Summary Figure 2. Total First Wholesale Volume and Value of Alaska Groundfish and Crab, by Product Type, 2014.....x

Executive Summary Figure 3. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Alaska Groundfish and Crab Species, 2010-2014 ...................x

Figures

Figure 1. Total Farmed Tilapia and Pangasius Production (mt), 1990-2013 ..................................................................................... 4

Figure 2. Pollock Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt), 1977-2014 ........................................................................................................... 8

Figure 3. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pollock, 1992-2014 .................................................................................... 9

Figure 4. Alaska Pollock First Wholesale Production Volume and Value, by Product Type, 2014 .................................................. 10

Figure 5. Alaska Pollock Fillet Supply Chain .................................................................................................................................... 15

Figure 6. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pollock Fillets, 2005-2014........................................................................ 16

Figure 7. Alaska Pollock Fillets Volume and Value by Processing Sector, 2005-2014 ..................................................................... 17

Figure 8. Exports of Alaska Pollock Fillets to Major European Markets, 2010-2014....................................................................... 19

Figure 9. Alaska Pollock Surimi Supply Chain.................................................................................................................................. 24

Figure 10. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pollock Surimi, 2005-2014..................................................................... 25

Figure 11. Alaska Pollock Surimi First Wholesale Volume and Value by Processing Sector, 2004-2014......................................... 25

Figure 12. Alaska Pollock Roe Supply Chain.................................................................................................................................... 31

Figure 13. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pollock Roe, 2005-2014......................................................................... 31

Figure 14. Alaska Pollock First Wholesale Value and Roe as Percent of Total Value, 1992-2014 ................................................... 32

Figure 15. Alaska Pollock Roe Production and Harvest Volume (mt), 2010-2014 .......................................................................... 32

Figure 16. Alaska Pollock Head & Gut Supply Chain ....................................................................................................................... 36

Figure 17. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Frozen H&G Alaska Pollock, 2005-2014............................................................ 36

Figure 18. Head and Gut Production Share, 2003-2014 ................................................................................................................. 37

Figure 19. Alaska Pollock H&G Volume and Value, by Processing Sector, 2004-2014.................................................................... 37

Figure 20. Global Harvest Volume of Alaska Pollock (mt), 1977-2014............................................................................................ 40

Figure 21. Pacific Cod Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt), 1977-2014 ................................................................................................. 43

Figure 22. Share of Alaska Pacific Cod Harvest by Gear Type, 2014 ............................................................................................... 44

Figure 23. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pacific Cod, 2005-2014 .......................................................................... 44

Figure 24. Volume and Value of Pacific Cod Wholesale Production in Alaska, by Product Type, 2014 .......................................... 45

Figure 25. Pacific Cod H&G Production in Alaska, by Volume and Value, 1992-2014 .................................................................... 46

Figure 26. Alaska Pacific Cod Supply Chain (Meat Products Only).................................................................................................. 47

Figure 27. Alaska Pacific Cod H&G Wholesale Production and Exports, 2007-2014....................................................................... 48

Figure 28. H&G as Percent of Total Alaska Pacific Cod Exports, 2007-2014 ................................................................................... 49

Figure 29. First Wholesale and Export Values for Alaska Pacific Cod Fillets, in $Thousands, 2010-2014 ....................................... 50

Figure 30. Total Alaska Pacific Cod Exports, by Volume and Value, 2007-2014.............................................................................. 50

Figure 31. U.S. Imports of Cod Fillets from Major Trading Partners (mt), 2012-2014 .................................................................... 52

Figure 32. Global Supply of Pacific Cod (mt), 1950-2013................................................................................................................ 55

Figure 33. Global Supply of Pacific and Atlantic Cod (mt), 1950-2013............................................................................................ 56

Figure 34. Comparison of Shatterpack Cod Value between Alaska and Competitors, 2005-2014 ................................................. 56

Figure 35. Yellowfin Sole Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt), 1983-2014 ............................................................................................ 58

Figure 36. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Alaska Yellowfin Sole, 2010-2014 ...................................................................... 59

Figure 37. Rock Sole Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt), 1985-2014 ................................................................................................... 61

Figure 38. Alaska Rock Sole Supply Chain ....................................................................................................................................... 62

Figure 39. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Rock Sole, 2010-2014 ............................................................................ 63

Figure 40. Share of U.S. Imports of Sole, by Region/Country, 2014 ............................................................................................... 65

Figure 41. Cost/Value Added to Sole by Chinese Secondary Processors, 2007-2015 ..................................................................... 66

Figure 42. Composition of Alaska Flatfish Production, by Species, by First Wholesale Volume, 2010-2014.................................. 67

Figure 43. Average Composition of Global Production of Flatfish, by Species, by Volume, 2010-2013 ......................................... 68

Figure 44. Global Flatfish Supply and Alaska Harvest of Yellowfin and Rock Sole, 1975-2013 ....................................................... 68

Figure 45. Atka Mackerel Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt), 1986-2014............................................................................................ 70

Figure 46. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Atka Mackerel, 2005-2014................................................................................ 72

Figure 47. Global Atka Mackerel Harvest (mt), 1980-2013............................................................................................................. 74

Figure 48. Pacific Ocean Perch Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt), 1977-2014 ................................................................................... 75

Figure 49. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Rockfish Species, 2005-2014 ................................................................. 78

Figure 50. Global Rockfish (Sebastes spp.) Harvest (mt), 1980-2013 ............................................................................................. 80

Figure 51. Alaska Sablefish Supply Chain........................................................................................................................................ 84

Figure 52. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Alaska Sablefish, 2005-2014............................................................................... 84

Figure 53. Alaska Wholesale and Ex-Vessel Prices per Pound, 1995-2014 ..................................................................................... 85
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • viii

Figure 54. U.S. Exports of Sablefish by Top 5 Asia Countries (excluding Japan), in $Thousands, 2009-2014 ................................. 88

Figure 55. Global Supply of Sablefish (mt), 2003-2014................................................................................................................... 89

Figure 56. Alaska Halibut Harvests/TACs (mt), 1950-2014 ............................................................................................................. 91

Figure 57. Alaska Halibut Supply Chain........................................................................................................................................... 92

Figure 58. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Pacific Halibut in Alaska, 1985-2014 .................................................................. 93

Figure 59. Alaska Halibut First Wholesale and Ex-Vessel Price per Pound, 1995-2014 ................................................................. 94

Figure 60. North American Halibut Supply and Wholesale Price, 2005-2015................................................................................. 95

Figure 61. Global Supply of Pacific Halibut (mt), 1950-2013 .......................................................................................................... 96

Figure 62. Pacific and Atlantic Halibut Harvest Volume (mt), 2004-2013....................................................................................... 97

Figure 63. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Ancillary Products from Alaska Groundfish, 2005-2014..................................... 99

Figure 64. Alaska Ancillary Product Wholesale Production Value, by Key Species, 2005-2014...................................................... 99

Figure 65. Alaska Ancillary Product First Wholesale Value and Volume, by Key Groundfish Species, 2014................................. 100

Figure 66. Alaska Groundfish Ancillary Product First Wholesale Value, by Product Type, 2005-2014 ......................................... 100

Figure 67. Alaska Ancillary Product First Wholesale Value and Volume, by Product Type, 2014 ................................................. 101

Figure 68. Alaska Fish Meal Production and Value, 2005-2014 .................................................................................................... 102

Figure 69. Exports of Alaska Fish Meal, 2010-2014 ...................................................................................................................... 103

Figure 70. First Wholesale Value and Volume of Alaska Groundfish Fish Oil Production, 2005-2014.......................................... 105

Figure 71. Exports of Alaska Fish Oil, 2010-2014 .......................................................................................................................... 106

Figure 72. First Wholesale Value of Other Ancillary Products from Alaska Groundfish, 2005-2014............................................. 107

Figure 73. Annual Snow and King Crab Harvests in Alaska, in Millions lb., 1967-2014................................................................. 110

Figure 74. Alaska Snow Crab Supply Chain ................................................................................................................................... 112

Figure 75. First Wholesale Production Volume of Alaska Snow Crab, in Millions lb., 2005-2014................................................. 113

Figure 76. First Wholesale Production Value of Alaska Snow Crab, in $Millions, 2005-2014....................................................... 114

Figure 77. First Wholesale Value and Volume of Snow Crab Sections, 2005-2014....................................................................... 115

Figure 78. Estimated Source of Snow Crab Consumed in the United States, 2014 ...................................................................... 116

Figure 79. U.S. Snow Crab Exports to China, 2007-2014............................................................................................................... 117

Figure 80. Global Harvest Volume of Snow Crab, in Millions lb., 2005-2013................................................................................ 119

Figure 81. Global Snow Crab Harvest by Country, 2013 ............................................................................................................... 119

Figure 82. Annual King Crab Landings in Alaska, in Millions lb., 1950-2014 ................................................................................. 121

Figure 83. Alaska King Crab Supply Chain ..................................................................................................................................... 123

Figure 84. First Wholesale Production Volume Alaska King Crab, in Millions lb., 2004-2014....................................................... 124

Figure 85. First Wholesale Value of Alaska King Crab, in $Millions, 2004-2014 ........................................................................... 124

Figure 86. First Wholesale Volume and Value of King Crab Sections, 2004-2014......................................................................... 125

Figure 87. Estimated Source of King Crab Consumed in the United States, 2014 ........................................................................ 127

Figure 88. U.S. Red King Crab Exports to Japan, 2005-2014 ......................................................................................................... 128

Figure 89. Estimated Global Supply of King Crab, in Millions lb., 2004-2013 ............................................................................... 129

Figure 90. Estimated Proportions of Global King Crab Supply, 2013 ............................................................................................ 130
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • ix

Pollock

45%

Pacific Cod

12%

Salmon

18%

Halibut/ 

Sablefish

1%

Crab

2%

Flatfish

14%

Other

8%

Volume

Executive Summary

This comprehensive series of wholesale market profiles examines federally managed groundfish and crab 

species caught in Alaska commercial fisheries. Each profile summarizes the fishery and provides in-depth 

information of wholesale production volume and value, product mix, supply chain, competing supply, and 

key markets. 

Alaska’s commercial fisheries are the most productive in the Nation, accounting for 60 percent of total 2014 

U.S. commercial fishery harvest volume. In 2014, first wholesale production of 1.28 million metric tons of all

Alaska species combined was valued at $4.27 billion (Executive Summary Figure 1).

1 The majority of Alaska 

seafood is exported, with overall exports estimated at 1.12 million metric tons valued at $3.28 billion.2 Alaska 

groundfish and crab species covered in this report accounted for 78 percent of Alaska’s total wholesale 

production volume in 2014, and 65 percent of the first wholesale value. Alaska pollock is the most plentiful 

and most valuable species, accounting for 45 percent of total production volume and 33 percent of the total 

production value. 

Executive Summary Figure 1. Composition of Total First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Seafood, by Species, 2014

In 2014, the Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands (BSAI) region produced 86 percent of total wholesale groundfish 

production volume and 83 percent of the value. The Gulf of Alaska (GOA) and Southeast Alaska region

1 See glossary defining first wholesale volume/value and other terms commonly used in this report. 

2 Here, export volume (shipping weight) includes the weight of packaging materials, while production volume (net weight) excludes the weight 

of packaging materials). Export value is the value upon exiting the country, including costs/profits associated with shipping. First wholesale 

value is generally equal to the value of product as it leaves Alaska. 

Pollock

33%

Pacific Cod

11%

Salmon

33%

Halibut/

Sablefish

5% Crab

9%

Flatfish

5%

Other

5%

Value 1.28 million mt $4.27 billion
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • x 

H&G/Whole Fish

42%

Surimi

18%

Fillets

20%

Roe

3%

Ancillary/Other

14%

Crab 

Sections

3%

Volume

produced the remainder: 13 percent of total wholesale groundfish production volume and 16 percent of the 

volume. 

The majority of these products are considered intermediate products, which undergo secondary processing 

outside Alaska to create finished products for retail and food service buyers around the world. Executive 

Summary Figure 2 summarizes first wholesale production volume and value of key groundfish and crab 

products by general product type. 

Executive Summary Figure 2. Total First Wholesale Volume and Value of Alaska Groundfish and Crab, 

by Product Type, 2014

Executive Summary Figure 3. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Alaska Groundfish and Crab Species, 2010-2014 

Source: AKFIN.

The total value of Alaska groundfish and crab has remained steady over the last 5 years (2010-2014, see 

Executive Summary Figure 3). Value per metric ton for each species category are shown below in Executive 

Summary Table 1. Changes in value are the result of numerous factors, summarized on page xii and examined 

in greater detail in this report.

 1 million mt $2.79 billion

$2,000

$2,200

$2,400

$2,600

$2,800

$3,000

$3,200

0

200,000

400,000

600,000

800,000

1,000,000

1,200,000

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($millions)

Volume (mt)

Volume (in mt) Value (in $millions)

H&G/Whole Fish

34%

Surimi

15%

Fillets

25%

Roe

6%

Ancillary/Other

7%

Crab 

Sections

13%

Value
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • xi

Executive Summary Table 1. Average First Wholesale Value per Metric Ton, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. Change in 2014 

from Prior 4-yr. Avg.

Alaska Pollock $2,906 $2,772 $2,874 $2,443 $2,425 -12% 

Pacific Cod 3,042 3,484 3,154 2,735 3,053 -2% 

Yellowfin Sole 1,154 1,400 1,387 1,287 1,043 -20% 

Rock Sole 1,368 1,705 1,990 1,333 1,290 -19% 

Pacific Halibut 14,659 17,693 15,508 14,419 17,194 10% 

Sablefish 15,247 19,220 14,316 12,250 14,776 -3% 

Pacific Ocean Perch 2,459 3,560 3,137 2,259 2,578 -10% 

Atka Mackerel 1,861 2,292 2,480 2,705 3,032 30% 

Snow Crab 7,277 12,054 10,559 11,052 11,650 14% 

King Crab 25,273 32,573 27,144 24,370 23,968 -12%

Source: AKFIN. 

Key Markets for Alaska Groundfish and Crab 

The United States, Europe, and Japan are the largest markets for finished products derived from Alaska 

groundfish and crab, typically accounting for more than 80 percent of first wholesale value. Approximately 

one-third of the Alaska groundfish and crab production volume is reprocessed in China (Executive Summary

Table 2). After secondary processing in China a large share of these products are re-exported to markets in 

Europe, the United States, and Japan. A significant amount of product exported to South Korea is held in cold 

storage facilities or reprocessed before re-exported to Japan and Europe.

Executive Summary Table 2. Primary Sales of First Wholesale Alaska Groundfish and Crab Products by Market, 

Estimated Annual Average Volume and Value, 2010-2014

Market First Wholesale 

Value ($millions)

Est. Pct. of Market 

Share (Value) Sales Volume (mt)

Est. Pct. of Market 

Share (Volume) 

China* $615 22% 281,533 33% 

Japan 454 16% 144,936 17% 

Europe 495 17% 168,026 19% 

South Korea* 313 11% 108,432 13% 

Other Countries 220 8% 60,030 7% 

Export Markets Total $2,097 74% 762,957 89% 

Est. Domestic Market $736 26% 99,779 11% 

*Primarily re-export markets.

Source: AKFIN, ADF&G (COAR), ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database, and McDowell Group estimates. 

Species profiled in this report represent a significant proportion of the global seafood trade between nations; 

however, most species face market competition from fisheries in other countries. Executive Summary Table 3 

summarizes first wholesale production volume and value of Alaska groundfish and crab products, the percent 

of global harvest volume, and key initial markets for each species. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • xii

Executive Summary Table 3. Alaska Groundfish and Crab Production and Market Summary, 2014

Species/Product First Wholesale 

Value ($millions)

Alaska Production 

Volume (mt)

Pct. of Global Harvest 

(2013) ---------- Key Markets ----------

Alaska Pollock $1,407 580,120 43% Japan Europe U.S.

Pacific Cod $472 154,580 18% China* Europe U.S.

Flatfish $209 172,510 32% China* U.S. Europe

Pacific Halibut $109 6,160 57% U.S. Canada --

Sablefish $99 6,700 78% Japan China U.S.

Atka Mackerel $63 32,280 19% Japan China* Korea

Rockfish $81 20,880 28% China* Japan U.S.

King Crab $117 4,870 15% U.S. Japan --

Snow Crab $233 20,020 15% U.S. Japan China

*Denotes re-export market. 

Source: AKFIN, ADF&G (COAR), and McDowell Group estimates. 

Current Market Issues

The value of Alaska seafood is affected by a range 

of market forces. Species profiles contain detailed 

information about how these forces impact the 

value of Alaska production; noteworthy market 

factors are summarized by species below. 

ALASKA POLLOCK

• Marine Stewardship Council (MSC)

certification of Russia’s largest pollock 

fishery has depressed prices for pollock 

fillets in Europe, a market where 

certification is required by many large 

retailers.

• Increasing production volume and changing consumer preferences in Japan have reduced the value 

of pollock roe — an important high-margin product for Alaska pollock producers. 

• Prices for Alaska pollock surimi blocks are trending up, due to lower production of competing 

products. 

PACIFIC COD

• Traditionally, markets in Europe substituted Pacific cod for declining Atlantic cod stocks. In recent 

years, Atlantic cod production has rebounded. Larger supplies of competing product, a stronger U.S. 

dollar, and protective tariffs in the European Union (EU) has reduced the value of Pacific cod in 

recent years.

HALIBUT AND SABLEFISH

• Halibut and sablefish processors have noted that moving inventory is not a problem due to high 

demand. Prices have risen as harvest has been reduced for both fish.

• Prices for halibut and sablefish peaked in 2011, but remain high. Sablefish, traditionally sold almost 

exclusively to Japanese buyers, has seen increased demand from other markets.

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • xiii

FLATFISH

• Wholesale prices for Alaska flatfish products have been reduced as the value of the euro has fallen 

and secondary processing costs have increased.

• Global flatfish and other competing whitefish production is up in recent years, putting downward 

pressure on prices for Alaska sole.

PACIFIC OCEAN PERCH AND ATKA MACKEREL

• Declining harvests of Atka mackerel in Japan have increased prices for Alaska product. 

• Reduced value of Asian currencies has decreased seafood imported for reprocessing, an important 

market for Pacific ocean perch and other rockfish species harvested in Alaska.

CRAB

• The largest impact on market demand for crab from Alaska has been linked to changes in illegal, 

unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing from Russia, which has historically produced a large 

volume of illegal crab products. King crab prices are most responsive to total Russian production 

volume, but snow crab prices are also affected. 

• Increased king crab harvests in Argentina and Chile are adding more production to global supply, 

impacting the market value of Alaska’s king crab harvest. 

ANCILLARY PRODUCTS

• The global aquaculture industry is increasingly using plant-based feeds instead of higher priced fish 

meals and oils. However, prices are expected to remain strong as Alaska’s groundfish meal is a 

unique product in high demand for eel and turtle farming. 

• Increased use of fish oil for human consumption helps drive strong prices for fish oil. Strong demand, 

coupled with new product development by Alaska processors, is expected to result in increased sales 

of nutritional supplements made from Alaska groundfish. 

Implication of Currency Exchange Rates

In addition to the market issues described above, prices for Alaska groundfish and crab products have been 

negatively impacted by a stronger U.S. dollar in recent years. A stronger dollar, relative to the currencies of 

key export markets and competing suppliers, generally makes Alaska seafood more expensive and competing 

product less expensive from foreign consumers’ point of view. Over the past 5 years, approximately 89

percent of the state’s groundfish and crab production was sold to export markets – primarily in Europe and 

Japan. 

Executive Summary Table 4 summarizes changes in foreign currency rates for key buyers and major 

competitors, versus the U.S. dollar, between 2013 and 2015. Exchange rates vary from year to year, but 

movements of this magnitude are unusual. 

Executive Summary Table 4. Changes in Relevant Currency Exchange Rates, October 2013 vs. October 2015

Country/Market Currency Primary Role Pct. Change vs. 

U.S. Dollar

European Union Euro Buyer -17.6%

Japan Yen Buyer -18.6%

Canada Canadian Dollar Buyer and Competitor -20.8%

Russia Ruble Competitor -49.2%

Norway Kroner Competitor -28.1%

U.S. Dollar Index (value relative to a basket of foreign currencies) +20.9%

Source: OANDA Average Foreign Exchange Rates and Investing.com DXY historical data. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • xiv

Glossary of Terms and Abbreviations 

Abbreviations and Acronyms

ADF&G Alaska Department of Fish and Game

AKFIN Alaska Fisheries Information Network

AFA American Fisheries Act

BSAI Bering Sea/Aleutian Islands 

CDQ Community Development Quota

COAR Commercial Operators Annual Report (published by Alaska Dept. of Fish and Game)

DFO Canadian Department of Fisheries and Oceans

EEZ Exclusive Economic Zone

FAO United Nations Fisheries and Aquaculture Organization

GOA Gulf of Alaska

H&G Headed and gutted

IFQ Individual Fishing Quota

IPHC International Pacific Halibut Commission

IQF Individual Quick Frozen

mt Metric tons

MSA Magnuson-Stevens Act of 1976

MSC Marine Stewardship Council

NMFS National Marine Fisheries Service

NPFMC North Pacific Fishery Management Council

PACFIN Pacific Fisheries Information Network

TAC Total Allowable Catch
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • xv

Glossary of Terms

Demersal Fish Marine fishes that live near the bottom of the ocean, also known as 

groundfish.

Exclusive Economic Zone Ocean area that extends past 3 nautical off the coast of Alaska to 200 miles 

off the coast of the United States, where exclusive federal fishery 

management occurs. 

Export Value The free alongside (FOB) value of an export product as it leaves a U.S. port, 

including all transport/etc. costs needed to create and move the product to 

the port of exit. 

Export Volume The weight of exported product in “product weight” terms, generally 

including the weight of all product and packaging, as it leaves a U.S. port.

Ex-Vessel Value/Price The amount paid to fishermen by a processor for harvested seafood, 

typically per pound round weight. 

Fillet Blocks Frozen product that is uniformly skinless, boneless, or minced fish which is 

quick frozen in a plate freezer intended for further processing.

First Wholesale Value The value of a processed product when sold by a processor to an entity 

outside of their affiliate network. Typically refers to the value of product as 

it leaves Alaska. 

First Wholesale Volume The weight of processed or packaged product, in net weight terms, 

produced for sale to another buyer outside of the primary processor’s 

affiliate network. Typically refers to the volume of processed product 

leaving Alaska. 

Fixed Gear Refers to pot/trap or longline commercial fishing gear.

Landings The amount of seafood harvested by fishermen.

Net Weight A term commonly used to measure halibut harvest volume. Whereas 

harvests of most other species are counted in round weight terms, halibut 

harvests are tallied in net weight, which is equal to an average headed and 

gutted weight of the fish. 

Production Volume/Value The term “production” is occasionally used as short-hand for first wholesale 

volume and value in this report. 

Round Weight The weight of a whole seafood species as it is delivered to the processor in 

an unprocessed and uncut state. 

Shatterpack Fillets Frozen fillets separate by a sheet that can be easily separated by dropping 

or shattering the carton.

Stock A species that can be managed as a single unit. 

Surimi Frozen, minced seafood that is blended with other ingredients to create 

molded products, such as imitation crab meat.

Total Allowable Catch The total amount of a target species that can be harvested in a given time 

period. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • xvi
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 1 

Global Groundfish Production and Key Markets

This chapter provides a broad overview of competing supply and key markets related to primary Alaska 

groundfish species and/or products. Each profile in this series contains detailed information about markets 

and competing supply for individual species or products, while this chapter contextualizes Alaska groundfish 

production and versus the rest of the world. 

Alaska Groundfish Production and Market Summary

Table 1 summarizes production volume, value, key markets, and the percentage of global production for Alaska 

groundfish species and products. Overall, the largest markets for Alaska groundfish are Europe, Japan, and the 

United States. Although Alaska accounts for a significant share of production for many groundfish species, the 

state produced only 2.9 percent of global whitefish and other marine fish harvests in 2013. 

Table 1. Alaska Groundfish Production and Market Summary, 2014

Species/Product First Wholesale Value 

($millions)

Alaska Production 

(mt) 

Pct. of Global 

Production (2013) ---------- Key Markets ----------

Pollock – Fillets $557 183,960 30% Europe U.S. Brazil

Pollock – Surimi 441 183,640 23% Japan Europe Korea

Pollock – Roe 148 24,120 N/A Japan Korea --

Pacific Cod 472 154,580 18% China* Europe U.S.

Flatfish 209 172,510 32% China* U.S. Europe

Pacific Halibut 109 6,160 57% U.S. Canada --

Sablefish 99 6,700 78% Japan China U.S.

Rockfish 81 32,280 28% China* Japan U.S.

Atka Mackerel 63 20,880 19% Japan China* Korea

*Denotes re-export market.

Note: Alaska harvest/production volume from 2013 was compared to 2013 global harvest/production estimates. Global harvest/production 

data for 2014 is not yet available. Alaska production figures are rounded. 

Source: AKFIN, ADF&G (COAR), and McDowell Group estimates. 

Global Whitefish and Other Marine Fish Production

Whitefish generally refers to cod, pollock, haddock, hake, whiting, and benthic flatfish species, such as sole, 

plaice, flounder, and halibut. These species - primarily caught in wild fisheries - also compete in global 

seafood markets with notable aquaculture species such as tilapia and pangasius. Depending on the market, 

the scope of these whitefish species may be narrowed or supplemented with other local varieties. Although 

global fisheries harvest significant volumes of whitefish, there are many other marine species with significant 

harvest volumes. For the purposes of this section, these species are generally referred to as “other marine 

fish species.” 

Capture fisheries and aquaculture production yielded 74 million metric tons of whitefish and other marine fish 

species in 2013 (round weight terms). The majority of production is used for meat, but fish meal, fish oil, and 

surimi production also utilize significant volumes of wild marine fish species. Fish meal and fish oil production 

required 16.3 million metric tons of wild capture fish species in 2012; however, about 35 percent of fish meal 

production was created using fish residues (ancillary products and waste rather than the whole fish).1 

1 (Green, Stahl, Vaughn, Carroll, & Baldwin, 2014)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 2

Table 2. Global Whitefish and Other Marine Fish Species Production (mt), 2013

Species Harvest Volume (mt) Primary Uses

Alaska Pollock 3,239,719 Meat, Surimi, Meal/Oil

Hakes, Hoki, and Whiting 2,209,131 Meat, Surimi, Meal/Oil

Cod and Haddock 2,169,226 Meat

Other Flatfish (Sole/Flounder/etc.) 882,063 Meat

Saithe 318,371 Meat

Other Whitefish 221,986 -

Halibuts and Turbots 157,824 Meat

Total Wild Whitefish (Capture Fisheries) 9,198,320 -

Anchovies, Shads, and Menhaden 9,411,729 Meal/Oil

Herring and Sardines 8,056,155 Meal/Oil, Meat, Roe, and 

Bait

Mackerel and Saury 5,716,215 Meat and Meal/Oil

Jacks, Scads, and Carangids 2,582,584 Meat and Meal/Oil

Other Coastal Species 2,556,069 -

Eels, Congers, and Hairtails 2,439,811 Meat and Surimi

Croakers and Drums 1,761,530 Meat and Bait

Breams, Lizardfish, and Pomfrets 1,539,437 Surimi and Meat

Mullets and Goatfish 778,322 Meat

Capelin 758,735 Roe and Meal/Oil

Other Demersal Species 590,858 -

Other Pelagic Species 529,231 -

Groupers and Seabass 317,542 Meat

Snappers 264,286 Meat

Rockfish 213,337 Meat

Atka Mackerels 130,448 Meat

Mahi-mahi (Dolphin) 102,986 Meat

Monkfish 92,768 Meat

Sablefish and Patagonian Toothfish 46,508 Meat

Other Misc. Species - Capture Fisheries 20,422,968 -

Total Other Marine Species 58,311,519 -

Tilapias (Farmed) 4,823,312 Meat

Pangasius (Farmed) 1,671,825 Meat

Total - Tilapias and Pangasius 6,495,137 -

Total Whitefish and Other Marine Species 74,004,976 -

Total Alaska Groundfish Harvest (2013)* 2,169,200 Pct of Total: 2.9%

*Includes herring harvests, to make the figure more comparable to the broader range of groundfish included in the 

table. 

Note: Red-fleshed fish species (e.g. tuna) and diadromous fish (e.g. salmon) are not included in these figures. 

Source: FAO, compiled by McDowell Group. 

The vast majority of fish shown in Table 2 can be processed into white fillets, and could represent a

substitute for key Alaska groundfish species on a general level. However, culinary traditions and local tastes 

tend to limit the number of species palatable to individual markets. For example, cod is a staple fish in 

Europe but virtually non-existent in Southeast Asia, where it would be more common to find carp or milkfish 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 3

filling the whitefish role. Cost is always a primary concern as well. Consumers generally will not substitute 

imported whitefish species for less expensive and traditionally palatable domestic species. There are also 

significant differences in the way different cultures prepare whitefish. Countries in emerging markets are 

generally more likely to cook fish whole while developed countries tend to use fillets or steaks. Differences in 

availability, price, taste, and fish size limit actual consumer substitution, despite the fact that most species 

listed in Table 2 could generally be categorized as white-fleshed fish. 

Alaska’s Position in the Global Whitefish Market

Alaska accounted for 2.9 percent of total global whitefish and other marine fish production in 2013. 

However, globally wild whitefish species (which constitute the majority of Alaska’s groundfish harvest) only 

accounted for 12.4 percent of total production in 2013. Alaska plays a bigger role in global production if the 

whitefish scope is narrowed to wild and farmed whitefish species (i.e. tilapias and pangasius). In 2013, Alaska 

production accounted for 13.5 percent of global wild and farmed whitefish production, a substantial figure in 

a global context.2 This is a notable comparison because wild whitefish species, such as cod, pollock, and sole, 

as well as farmed tilapias and pangasius, are more likely to be exported than other wild fish species, which 

are mainly sold into domestic markets or transformed into fish meal, fish oil, or surimi. 

Alaska’s commercial fisheries produce larger harvests than every other U.S. state combined and 80 percent of 

Alaska’s harvest volume came from high-volume whitefish fisheries (pollock, cod, and flatfish) in 2013. 

Despite the impressive scale of its high-volume whitefish fisheries, Alaska is only a fractional part of global 

whitefish production. As a result, Alaska’s groundfish industry is a usually a price taker where the value of its 

cod, pollock, and flatfish are impacted by competing suppliers and competing whitefish species. Russia 

(cod/pollock/flatfish), China (tilapia), Norway (cod), Japan (pollock/cod), New Zealand (hoki), and Vietnam 

(pangasius) are the biggest competitors for Alaska’s groundfish industry, in terms of high-volume whitefish 

species. 

Low volume Alaska whitefish species like halibut, sablefish, rockfish, and Atka mackerel have much more 

defined markets where Alaska is the primary export supplier and generally account for a larger percent of 

global supply in these niche markets. As a result, species substitution is less common in markets for these 

species and price is mostly a function of Alaska or local harvest volume. 

Tradition, taste preferences, and familiarity are hurdles in developing new markets for Alaska groundfish 

species. However, culinary influences are blending and crossing borders faster than perhaps any other time in 

human history. Modern urban centers like Singapore, Sao Paulo, San Francisco, Sydney, Seoul provide a 

growing supply of unique seafood options. Expanding culinary options presents new marketing opportunities 

for Alaska’s seafood industry. Particularly since Alaska has a reputation for quality and a strong distribution 

network, having been in the business of exporting fish for decades. However, it may also present challenges 

in existing markets in years to come as consumers gain more exposure to seafood from other cultures. 

Competition from Tilapia and Pangasius

Tilapia and pangasius, also known as basa, swai, tra, or catfish have become dominant species many global 

seafood markets. Combined aquaculture production of the two species reached nearly 6.5 million metric tons 

in 2013 (Figure 1).

 2 Whitefish in this comparison includes tilapia, pangasius, cod, haddock, pollock, hakes, hoki, whiting, flatfish, and other wild cod-like groundfish 

species. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 4

Tilapia production continues to grow rapidly and consistently. China 

(including Hong Kong and Taiwan) produced 1.73 million metric 

tons, accounting for 35 percent of total tilapia production, in 2013. 

Several other countries have established themselves as major 

producers, such as Egypt (16 percent), Indonesia (15 percent), and 

the Philippines (5 percent). Tilapia production in Indonesia, 

Bangladesh, Brazil, and Mexico is growing especially fast. The vast 

majority of tilapia product imported by the United States and 

Europe consists of frozen fillets from China. 

Pangasius production flattened out in 2013 after increasing nearly 

10-fold during the previous decade. Vietnam is by far the largest

producer of pangasius products, accounting for 81 percent of all

production. Industry reports suggest Vietnamese production remained stunted in 2014 and 2015 as high feed 

costs, weak demand in major markets, and low prices have led to a reduction in the number of farms. 

Production and domestic market demand is increasing in other Southeast Asian countries, such as Indonesia.3

Figure 1. Total Farmed Tilapia and Pangasius Production (mt), 1990-2013

Source: FAO. 

Tilapia and pangasius fillets are major whitefish imports in the United States and Europe. Sourced primarily 

from China and Vietnam, imported frozen fillets of these two fish were worth $1.6 billion in 2014. The United 

States is the primary market for tilapia while Europe, collectively, is a slightly larger pangasius market than 

the United States. 

Demand for tilapia fillets is strong in the United States and Europe, as evidenced by rising volumes and rising 

import prices in 2014 (Table 3). Total U.S. and Europe import value of frozen tilapia fillets was up 8.6 percent 

while the average value/mt increased 6.8 percent to $4,935. Meanwhile, western market demand for 

pangasius appears to be waning despite flat to declining supply. The average import value/mt was up slightly, 

but import volumes of pangasius fell 7.2 percent in the United States and Europe (combined) in 2014. 

Tilapia and pangasius are becoming popular seafood choices in markets outside of the United States and 

Europe. The fastest growing major markets are Brazil (pangasius, +100 percent growth in volume during 

2014), Iran (tilapia, +284 percent), Mexico (tilapia, +5 percent), Thailand (pangasius, +19 percent), and 

 3 (FAO Globefish Market Reports, 2014-2015)

0

1,000,000

2,000,000

3,000,000

4,000,000

5,000,000

6,000,000

7,000,000

199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013

Volume (mt)

Tilapias and Other Cichlids Pangasius
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 5

Columbia (pangasius, +11 percent). India and Indonesia, with a combined population of approximately 1.5 

billion people, are also developing domestic supplies of farmed tilapia and pangasius. In contrast to western 

markets, the amount of pangasius imported by developing markets grew faster than tilapia in 2014. Outside 

of Brazil, Alaska exports relatively little groundfish product to these tilapia/pangasius markets.

Table 3. Imports of Tilapia and Pangasius Products, United States and Europe vs. Other Markets, 2012-2014 

2012 2013 2014 YOY Pct. 

Change

U.S. & Europe (Combined)

Import Value ($millions)

Tilapia – Frozen Fillets $803.9 $845.3 $918.0 8.6%

Tilapia – Frozen Fish 54.9 82.5 92.4 12.0%

Pangasisus – Frozen Fillets 778.0 717.4 694.3 -3.2%

Import Volume (mt)

Tilapia – Frozen Fillets 187,130 182,956 186,021 1.7%

Tilapia – Frozen Fish 29,796 41,776 40,674 -2.6%

Pangasisus – Frozen Fillets 260,126 267,260 248,078 -7.2%

Import Value/mt

Tilapia – Frozen Fillets $4,296 $4,620 $4,935 6.8%

Tilapia – Frozen Fish 1,841 1,975 2,271 15.0%

Pangasisus – Frozen Fillets 2,991 2,684 2,799 4.3%

2012 2013 2014 YOY Pct. 

Change

Other Markets

Import Value ($millions)

Tilapia – Frozen Fillets $158.9 $282.4 $307.3 8.8%

Tilapia – Frozen Fish 24.2 53.0 46.3 -12.6%

Pangasisus – Frozen Fillets 310.0 428.3 500.6 16.9%

Import Volume (mt)

Tilapia – Frozen Fillets 43,796 73,238 76,246 4.1%

Tilapia – Frozen Fish 13,518 27,965 23,207 -17.0%

Pangasisus – Frozen Fillets 133,980 205,243 240,478 17.2%

Import Value/mt

Tilapia – Frozen Fillets $3,629 $3,856 $4,031 4.5%

Tilapia – Frozen Fish 1,790 1,894 1,994 5.3%

Pangasisus – Frozen Fillets 2,313 2,087 2,082 -0.2%

Source: Global Trade Atlas. 

Summary of Key Alaska Groundfish Markets

Export markets buy about 90 percent of Alaska groundfish meat products, and an even larger percentage of 

surimi, roe, and ancillary groundfish products are exported. China is the largest wholesale market for meat 

products, accounting for 44 percent of estimated sales volume in 2014 (Table 4). However, with the exception of 

sablefish, the vast majority of Alaska groundfish exported to China is re-exported to Europe, the United States, 

and Japan. Europe is the largest overall market for Alaska groundfish, due to the high volume of pollock and cod 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 6

which eventually enters European markets. Japan is likely the second largest market followed by the United 

States, in terms of final sales volume. 

Table 4. Wholesale Sales of Alaska Groundfish Meat Products (mt), 2014 

Wholesale 

Production

United 

States (Est.) Europe China Japan Other Total Exports

Alaska Pollock 252,809 39,961 137,209 53,390 4,512 17,737 212,848

Pacific Cod 134,206 30,394 20,975 57,195 16,571 9,071 103,812

Flatfish 167,185 40,045 717 107,486 5,356 13,581 127,140

Rockfish 32,192 8,390 58 15,566 6,861 1,317 23,802

Atka Mackerel 20,888 1,361 15 3,741 12,627 3,144 19,527

Sablefish 6,696 593 173 559 4,648 723 6,103

Pacific Halibut 6,159 4,093 0 16 0 2,050 2,066

Unknown Species - -58,740* 310 36,950 7,401 14,079 58,740

Total 620,134 66,096 159,457 274,903 57,976 61,702 554,038

Pct. of Total - 11% 26% 44% 9% 10% 89%

Note: Wholesale production of high-volume whitefish species only includes whole fish, H&G, and fillet production. Virtually all halibut and 

sablefish consists of edible products. 

*Unknown species likely represent exports of Alaska flatfish and other high-volume whitefish species, this non-specific volume is debited from 

estimates of U.S. supply. This amount could also represent part of the difference between how product weight is reported in export and 

production statistics. 

Source: AKFIN, ADF&G (COAR), and ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 7

Wholesale Market Profiles for 

Alaska Pollock Products

Note: Differentiating pollock by its place of origin, primarily Russia or Alaska, can be confusing due to the official species name 

(Alaska pollock). To avoid confusion, we typically use the term “pollock” to refer to Alaska pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus) from 

any country/place. References to pollock from a specific place are called out by name (e.g. “Alaska pollock” or “Russian 

pollock”).

Alaska pollock or walleye pollock (Gadus chalcogrammus) is currently the largest single species fishery in the 

world, with stocks concentrated in the North Pacific Ocean. Pollock are commercially harvested by several 

countries, but Alaska and Russia are the largest producers by a wide margin. Alaska pollock harvests are large 

on a national scale, accounting for 33 percent of total U.S. commercial fishery landings and 14 percent of 

wholesale production value in 2014. 

Pollock is the single most valuable and plentiful species in Alaska’s seafood industry, accounting for 45 

percent of production volume and 32 percent of first wholesale value in 2014. Alaska pollock is processed 

into fillets, surimi, roe, headed and gutted (H&G), fish meal, fish oil, and other products. Europe, Japan, and 

United States are the primary consumer markets. This market profile summarizes key products and markets 

for pollock fisheries in Alaska. 

Table 5. Summary Profile of Alaska Pollock Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 

Value and Volume Key Products Fillets Surimi Roe H&G Other

First Wholesale Production (mt) 580,120 Pct. of Value 39% 31% 11% 7% 12%

Pct. of Global Pollock Harvest (2013) 43% Key Markets Japan Europe U.S. Korea Other

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $1,407 Pct. of Final Sales 36% 40% 11% 6% 6%

Pct. Change in Value from Prior 4 yr Avg. 5.5% YOY Change 24% 11% N/A 12% N/A

Pct. of Alaska Groundfish Value 58% Competing Species: Russian Pollock, hake, hoki, tropical surimi, & cod.

Fishery Summary

Alaska pollock are primarily harvested using mid-water trawl gear 

in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska. In the 1960s, Japanese and 

other foreign fishermen initially fished for pollock until the 200-

mile Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) was established by the 

Magnuson-Stevens Act of 1977, eliminating foreign fishing vessels 

in U.S. waters. Commercial fishing efforts remained a joint venture 

with Japanese vessels until the late 1980s when the fishing fleet 

became entirely U.S. based. Fishing efforts between 1977 and 1986

were minimal, with an average of 30,000 mt landed. In comparison, landings averaged 1.1 million mt in the 

last 10 years (Figure 2). The Alaska pollock total allowable catch (TAC) in 2014 was 1.46 million mt and 1.53 

million mt in 2015, an increase of 4.6 percent. 

Photo Courtesy of Alaska Seafood.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 8

Figure 2. Pollock Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt), 1977-2014

 Source: NMFS OST (1977-2004) and NMFS Economic SAFE 2014 (2005-2014).

In 1998, the American Fisheries Act (AFA) created participation requirements for entry into the Bering Sea 

Aleutian Islands (BSAI) pollock fishery through a cooperative. The allocations under the AFA, which went into 

effect in 1999 for the inshore and mothership sectors and 2000 for the offshore sector, distribute 50 percent 

of the TAC to the inshore sector (catcher vessels delivering onshore), 40 percent to the offshore sector 

(catcher processors), and 10 percent to motherships (floating processors which receive pollock primarily from 

catcher vessels). AFA catcher processors are the largest fishing vessels in Alaska and range from 200 feet to 

344 feet in length.4 In 2014, there were 3 motherships, 21 catcher processors, and 104 catcher vessels 

permitted in the Alaska pollock fisheries.5

Table 6. Alaska Pollock Harvest Volume in Federal and State Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Federal-Gulf of Alaska 75,072 79,821 101,355 93,728 140,260

610 Shumagin 26,051 20,597 27,893 7,711 13,364

620 Chirikof 28,250 37,225 45,095 53,115 83,082

630 Kodiak 19,134 19,728 25,986 29,962 42,757

West Yakutat/Southeast 1,637 2,271 2,381 2,940 1,057

Federal-BS/AI 811,677 1,200,450 1,206,252 1,273,766 1,300,211

AFA Inshore 351,684 519,093 525,185 548,975 555,518

AFA Catcher Processor 282,750 423,680 423,161 440,591 445,178

AFA Mothership 70,576 109,856 105,384 110,020 111,000

CDQ 81,275 116,978 121,854 126,538 128,549

Incidental Catch/Other 25,392 30,843 30,668 47,642 59,966

State Waters

Prince William Sound 1,661 1,532 2,624 2,621 2,368

Total 888,410 1,281,803 1,310,231 1,370,115 1,442,839

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports, ADF&G Groundfish Reports.

 4 (North Pacific Fishery Management Council, 2012)

5 https://alaskafisheries.noaa.gov/ram/afa.htm

0

200,000

400,000

600,000

800,000

1,000,000

1,200,000

1,400,000

1,600,000

19771978197919801981198219831984198519861987198819891990199119921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Harvest Volume (mt)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 9

The majority of commercial pollock fisheries are located in federal jurisdiction (Table 6). There is a statemanaged trawl fishery in Prince William Sound, with a 5 year harvest average of 2,160 mt.6 A federally 

mandated Community Development Quota program allocates 10 percent of the BSAI quota to eligible rural 

communities in western Alaska before quota is divided amongst the commercial sectors. The pollock season 

is split into two distinct seasons. “A” season runs from January to April and “B” season runs from June 

through October. 

Alaska Pollock Production

This section summarizes the value and volume of primary Alaska pollock products. In total, Alaska pollock 

accounted for 58 percent of Alaska’s groundfish production volume and 60 percent of first wholesale value in 

2014.7

Wholesale Production and Value Summary

Pollock is one of the most valuable fisheries in Alaska, and even the world, due to its tremendous volume, 

production versatility, and white, mild-flavored flesh. Virtually all edible pollock products are frozen before 

being sold into wholesale markets. Alaska pollock harvests yielded 580,120 mt of processed product in 2014, 

with a first wholesale value of $1.41 billion (Figure 3).

 Figure 3. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pollock, 1992-2014

Source: AKFIN.

Alaska pollock yield five primary product types: surimi, fillets, H&G, roe, and fish meal/oil. In 2014, of the 

580,120 mt of pollock products produced, 183,960 mt were used in fillets, 183,640 mt in surimi, 67,170 mt in 

H&G, 24,120 mt in roe, and other products (including fish meal, minced meat, and fish oil) adding up to 

121,230 mt. Fish meal, oil, and other ancillary products are discussed in greater detail in a separate profile

(Figure 4). 

 6 (Wessel, Rumble, Goldman, Russ, Byerly and Russ, 2014)

7 Based on AKFIN and ADF&G COAR Reports.

 $200

 $400

 $600

 $800

 $1,000

 $1,200

 $1,400

 $1,600

 -

 100,000

 200,000

 300,000

 400,000

 500,000

 600,000

 700,000

19921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Value ($millions)

Volume (mt)

Volume (mt) Value ($Millions)

0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 10

Figure 4. Alaska Pollock First Wholesale Production Volume and Value, by Product Type, 2014

Fillets provide the most revenue of any product type in most years, with surimi usually in second place. 

Together fillets and surimi accounted for 70 percent of Alaska pollock’s first wholesale value in 2014 (Figure 4 

and Table 7). Although roe is only 4 percent of the production volume, it accounts for 11 percent of the fish’s 

value and used to be a more valuable piece of the pie. Fish meal/oil, minced meat, and other ancillary 

products account for 12 percent of the value, while head/gut production is 7 percent. 

Table 7. Production Volumes and Recovery Rates for Common Alaska Pollock Products, 2014

2014 Production 

Volume 

(mt)

2014 Production 

Value 

($thousands)

Recovery Rate Range 

Pct. from 

Round Weight

Average 

Price/kg

Fillets 184,000 $556,800 20-35% $3.03

Surimi 183,600 441,300 20-30% $2.40

Head and Gut 67,200 93,900 52-72% $1.40

Roe 24,100 148,200 *1.2-1.9% $6.14

Other Products 121,200 166,700 - $1.38

Total Wholesale Production 580,100 $1,406,900 41% -

Total Retained Harvest 1,426,800 - - -

*Actual range of roe recovery rate from 2010 to 2014 compared to total harvest volume; however, roe recovery rates can vary significantly 

depending on when fish are harvested - from virtually 0 to 8 percent. 

Note: Production volume is shown in product-weight terms. 

Source: AKFIN, NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports, ADF&G Groundfish Report, industry interviews, and Crapo, 2013.

Roe typically has the highest profit margin per unit of production. Its current price levels are at historic lows 

at $6.14/kg (Table 7). In comparison, fillets and surimi have first wholesale prices of $3.00/kg and $2.29/kg, 

respectively. Head and gut products, which are typically processed into fillets or surimi outside of Alaska, had 

a unit value of $1.40/kg per pound in 2014.

Fillets

40%

Surimi

31%

Roe

11%

Head/gut

7%

Minced

2%

Fish meal

7%

Other

3%

Value

Fillets

32%

Surimi

32%

Roe

4%

Head/gut

12%

Minced

5%

Fish meal

10%

Other

7%

Volume

580,120 mt $1.41 billion

Note: Percentages may not sum to 100 percent due to rounding.

Source: AKFIN.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 11

ALASKA POLLOCK PRODUCTION MIX

U.S. pollock producers generally convert raw material into frozen fillets, surimi, or head and gut products, 

then seek to add value from roe and other ancillary products such as fish meal and fish oil. Production 

volume of the latter are dictated by harvest volume, technology employed to transform unused parts of the 

fish into additional products, and other factors like fish size or harvest timing. Producers have more choice

over product volume derived from pollock meat (fillets, surimi, and head and gut) rather than roe or ancillary 

products. Production decisions about meat products are made based on numerous factors affecting expected 

overall profit margins. Production capacity and flexibility is the largest consideration for individual processors

as most facilities are unable to shift all production into either fillet or surimi production. Incremental 

production adjustments are made in response to demand from sales contracts, currency exchange rates, and 

wholesale pricing trends. Table 8 summarizes the production mix over the past decade (2005-2014). 

The share of fillet production has been fairly steady over the past decade, with the exception of 2010 and 

2012. In both years, wholesale prices for surimi product increased significantly likely incentivizing a greater 

emphasis on surimi production. Fillet production increased substantially in 2013, coinciding with a weakening 

Japanese yen (a prominent surimi market). Surimi production averaged 31.2 percent over the past decade. 

Production fell sharply in 2009 coinciding with a 32 percent decline in average surimi unit values and lower 

TACs. Head and gut production has increased nearly three-fold since 2005, possibly a signal that value-added 

processing costs in Alaska are rising faster than other areas where product can be transformed by secondary 

processors, such as China. The trend also supports industry claims about declining premiums for once-frozen 

product. Roe accounted for 4.6 percent of first wholesale production volume over the past decade. Roe 

yields, compared to round-weight harvest volume, averaged 1.8 percent and are dictated by harvest timing 

and fish size rather than market factors. 

Total production yields compared to round-weight harvest volume have generally increased over the past 

decade, likely as a result of capital investments, other gains in processing efficiencies, and possibly other 

factors. Yields increased significantly from 2008 through 2010 as TACs declined. Processors had more time 

and incentive to maximize recovery rates from a smaller harvest. Yields declined after 2010 as TACs 

rebounded but are substantially higher than levels seen prior to 2009. 

Table 8. Alaska Pollock Production Composition, by First Wholesale Volume, 2005-2014

Fillets as Pct. Surimi as Pct. H&G as Pct. Roe Yield Total Yield Harvest

Year of Total 

Production

of Total 

Production

of Total 

Production

vs. Harvest 

Volume

vs. Harvest

Volume

Volume

in mt

2005 30.2% 37.6% 4.1% 1.7% 34.0% 1,565,600

2006 32.4% 33.9% 4.5% 1.9% 33.7% 1,561,800

2007 33.7% 31.9% 6.1% 2.2% 36.0% 1,409,700

2008 32.2% 33.2% 6.4% 2.0% 36.2% 1,044,400

2009 32.5% 24.0% 15.8% 2.2% 42.3% 856,800

2010 29.3% 27.2% 16.0% 1.9% 42.8% 888,400

2011 32.5% 28.8% 11.6% 1.5% 40.1% 1,281,800

2012 29.8% 32.7% 9.4% 1.4% 39.0% 1,310,200

2013 32.3% 31.1% 11.4% 1.2% 39.9% 1,370,100

2014 31.7% 31.6% 11.6% 1.7% 40.2% 1,442,800

Sources: AKFIN, NMFS (OST), NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports, and ADF&G Groundfish Reports.

First wholesale value of Alaska pollock has been relatively stable over the past decade in nominal terms, 

outside of 2009 and 2010 when TACs fell sharply. Value peaked in 2012 but declined in recent years despite 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 12

larger harvests. In general, the Alaska pollock sector is likely a less profitable industry than it was a decade 

ago. Nominal figures, like those shown in Table 9, do not account for the effects of inflation. The inflationadjusted first wholesale value of Alaska pollock production was $1.60 billion in 2005, or 12.1 percent less

than 2014.8

Lower pollock roe values are big reason for lower first wholesale values, in real terms. Roe accounted for 

more than 20 percent of production value prior to 2008, but declining prices have made the category 

relatively less valuable. Fillets and surimi provide the bulk of pollock value, typically between 65 and 71

percent. Head and gut product has gained a larger share of the value with rising production, while other 

products have become a more important part of the total value due to rising prices for fish meal and fish oil.

Table 9. Alaska Pollock Production Composition, by First Wholesale Value, 2005-2014

Fillets as Pct. Surimi as Pct. Roe as Pct. H&G as Pct. Other Products Total

Year of Total Value of Total 

Value

of Total 

Value of Total Value as Pct. of TotalValue

Value $millions

2005 31.2% 32.2% 26.7% 2.2% 7.6% $1,323

2006 36.4% 28.0% 22.4% 2.3% 10.8% $1,301

2007 38.3% 27.6% 20.5% 3.5% 10.1% $1,277

2008 33.2% 38.2% 17.4% 3.1% 8.1% $1,378

2009 43.3% 23.4% 15.3% 8.0% 9.9% $1,065

2010 38.2% 32.3% 8.9% 8.8% 11.9% $1,106

2011 40.0% 29.4% 10.7% 7.7% 12.2% $1,424

2012 35.5% 35.6% 11.5% 4.8% 12.5% $1,469

2013 42.2% 28.3% 8.7% 7.5% 13.4% $1,336

2014 39.6% 31.4% 10.5% 6.7% 11.8% $1,407

Sources: AKFIN. 

The total value of Alaska pollock production has been relatively stable over the past decade but unit values 

for key products have been more volatile (Table 10). Market factors driving changes in prices for key products 

are examined in more detail in later sections. 

Table 10. Unit Value per Metric Ton for Major Alaska Pollock Products, 2005-2014

Year Fillets Surimi H&G Roe Fish Meal Fish Oil Total

2005 $2,568 $2,128 $1,342 $13,522 $731 $436 $2,484

2006 2,781 2,043 1,247 9,716 1,004 789 2,470

2007 2,865 2,181 1,436 8,608 1,041 718 2,519

2008 3,745 4,187 1,734 11,567 1,109 1,099 3,640

2009 3,917 2,868 1,496 8,806 1,204 728 2,937

2010 3,789 3,448 1,595 5,957 1,576 912 2,906

2011 3,416 2,823 1,830 7,926 1,559 1,147 2,772

2012 3,414 3,134 1,479 9,317 1,499 1,179 2,874

2013 3,193 2,217 1,607 7,173 1,726 1,210 2,443

2014 3,027 2,403 1,398 6,145 1,709 1,135 2,424

Sources: AKFIN.

 8 Inflation adjustments based on consumer price index.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 13

DISCUSSION OF RECOVERY RATES FOR ALASKA POLLOCK

Pollock yields a lower percentage of processed product (in first wholesale terms) compared to most other 

Alaska seafood products, but historically pollock has been processed more intensely and efficiently than any 

other major Alaska species utilizing residues and waste to produce fish meal, fish oil, and other ancillary 

products. Therefore, an important question arises from analyzing production and harvest volume of Alaska 

seafood species: if pollock processing is so efficient, why does it result in lower production yields than other 

species? 

Several factors explain this paradox. First, the majority of primary processing for Alaska pollock consists of 

skinless/boneless fillets or surimi, which are relatively finished products compared to the more head and gut 

format for other fish species. Frozen fillets and surimi made from pollock generally yield 22 to 26 percent of 

product volume compared to the round weight of the fish. Larger fish and/or bone-in fillets can yield more 

production volume but make up a small share of total fillet production volume. Deep-skinned fillets have

even lower yields due to the removal of additional flesh. Secondly, the majority of pollock retained in Alaska 

fisheries are generally between 4 and 6 years old, and weigh between 1 and 2 lb. Regardless of the species, 

small fish tend to have less fillet yield than large fish. Thirdly, in addition to the primary meat products (fillets 

and surimi), processors use other parts of the fish to produce roe and ancillary products. These products 

create more production volume, but also have relatively low recovery rates. Finally, not all processing 

facilities in Alaska have the ability to create ancillary pollock products, thereby lowering the sector’s overall 

yield. 

Pollock is an abundant, rationalized fishery allowing for a highly efficient processing sector. Production 

volume generally reflects the most economically-feasible yield attainable, given the nature of the resource. 

The difference between harvest volume and production volume for other Alaska seafood species would be 

greater if more volume was converted to finished product, as is the case with pollock. Therefore, the 

significant difference in harvest volume compared to in-state production volume for pollock generally

indicates a higher degree of value-added processing taking place in Alaska compared to many other Alaska 

fisheries. 

Wholesale Market Profile of Alaska Pollock Fillets

Fillets accounted for 40 percent of the total Alaska pollock production value in 2014. Pollock fillets function as 

a whitefish commodity for fish sticks/fingers, patties, and other value-added frozen whitefish fillet products. 

The two primary markets for fillets are Europe and the United States. Prices have trended downward in 

recent years due to increased supply and a stronger U.S. dollar. 

Product Description 

The majority of Alaska pollock fillets are processed into frozen blocks of skinless or deep-skinned fillets due to 

the long slender fillet shape of pollock. Fillets are also packaged as individually quick frozen (IQF) portions or 

shatterpacks (blocks of frozen fillets with each fillet separated by plastic). Key fillet products are summarized 

below. 

Fillet Blocks – The dominant fillet product form is composed of whole fillets that are frozen in frames 

under pressure. Each standard frozen block weighs 16.5 lb. and are packaged in sets of three yielding a 

49.5 lb. case. Blocks can contain pinbone-out (PBO) or pinbone-in (PBI) fillets. Most Alaska product 

consists of PBO, skinless blocks. 

Deep-Skinned Fillet Blocks – Composed of whole skinless/boneless fillets that also have the fat line 

removed. These products are packaged in the same standard sizes as fillet blocks. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 14

Shatterpacks – Whole fillets which have been interleaved with 

plastic then frozen as a block. The plastic interleaf allows users 

to break apart individual fillets without thawing the product. 

Each standard shatterpack weighs 15 lb and comes three to a 

case. 

IQF Fillets – Individually quick frozen (IQF) whole fillets are 

glazed and frozen separately, often packaged into bags 

and/or boxes for transport. Standard sizes are 10, 15, and 25 

pound boxes. 

Alaska pollock fillets are produced primarily by catcher-processors 

and shoreside production facilities. These Alaska producers manufacture once-frozen products. Pollock fillets 

are also produced at secondary processing facilities in China and Europe using imported H&G product. 

However, the fish must be thawed and often re-frozen after processed, creating what is known as twicefrozen fillets. Once-frozen and twice-frozen Alaska pollock fillets compete in most of the same markets, but 

once-frozen product sells at a premium due to its higher quality. Whether the fish is processed in Alaska or 

abroad, the primary processing forms are skinless fillets (PBO or PBI) and deep-skinned fillets. 

The average commercially harvested Alaska pollock weighs 2 lb

and yields fillets ranging from 2 to 4 oz. Deep-skinned fillets 

refers to the additional removal of the dark fatty layer of flesh, 

and results in a lower recovery rate and higher average price. 

Finished products made from deep-skinned filets are often sold 

to fast food chains and multi-unit restaurants. Other regularskinned fillet blocks are usually used in casual “fish and chips” 

restaurants, or in retail as breaded products.9

Pollock fillets are primarily used in frozen, generic whitefish 

products, such as fish sticks/fingers, breaded fish fillets/patties, 

and other value-added frozen products. They are popular in 

quick service restaurants such as McDonald’s and Long John 

Silver’s. Frozen products made from pollock fillets are widely 

available in most European and North American grocery stores. 

Supply Chain

When pollock is landed in Alaska, it enters one of the most complex supply chains of any groundfish species. 

Landed fish are first headed and gutted. Heads and other offal is turned into fish meal/oil or retained for 

other niche markets. Pollock meat is generally used to make either surimi or fillets. The fillet supply chain is 

summarized in Figure 5. 

 9 (National Marine Fisheries Service, 2001)

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.

Photo Credits: Genuine Alaska Pollock Producers.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 15

Figure 5. Alaska Pollock Fillet Supply Chain

Note: The diagram above depicts the movement of major product volumes, and does not reflect supply 

channels for smaller volumes of product. 

The majority of Alaska’s once-frozen fillet production is exported to secondary processing companies in 

Europe, while a lesser amount goes to similar companies in the United States. Most head/gut production is 

exported to China for twice-frozen fillet production. European processors also import significant volumes of 

twice-frozen fillets, made from both Russian and Alaska pollock. Brazil is also a major importer of twice 

frozen fillets from China. Secondary processors manufacture a range of breaded, coated, salted or unaltered 

products, mostly for high-volume retail, foodservice, or distribution companies. 

Fillet Production Analysis

Fillets accounted for 32 percent of all Alaska pollock production volume in 2014. Fillets were the most valuable 

pollock product form in 2014 in terms of total revenue. Fillet production declined from 2007 to 2010, due to 

smaller harvests. The average wholesale price of fillets increased 36 percent during that period, but higher prices 

were not enough to offset lower production volume and total revenue fell 11 percent. Conversely, larger pollock 

harvests since 2010 have led to expanded fillet production, lower prices, and rising total fillet revenue (Figure 6 

and Table 11). Fillet prices have declined substantially since 2009 after adjusting for inflation, although recent 

fillet revenue (2012-2014) has been about equal to the 2005-2007 period (in real terms). 

Alaska 

Catcher Vessels

Amendment 80

Catcher-Processors

Motherships

(Floating Processors)

Shoreside

Processors

AFA

Catcher-Processors

H&G

Pollock

Once-Frozen

Fillets

Chinese Secondary

Processors

(Twice frozen fillets)

European 

Secondary Processors

U.S. Secondary

Processors

Secondary Processors

in Other Countries

European Retail & 

Foodservice Buyers

U.S. Retail & 

Foodservice Buyers
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 16

Figure 6. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pollock Fillets, 2005-2014

Table 11. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Pollock Fillets, $Millions

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$413 $474 $489 $457 $462 $422 $570 $521 $564 $557

Source: AKFIN. 

Skinless/boneless fillets account for the majority of production. Deep-skinned fillets are the next most 

common product (Table 12). In 2014, 73 percent of pollock fillets produced in Alaska were skinless fillets 

without ribs, while deep-skinned fillets accounted for 24 percent of production volume. Fillet production has 

grown in recent years, generally tracking increases in harvest volume.

Table 12. Alaska Pollock Fillet Unit Value per Metric Ton and Production Composition, 

by Primary Fillet Type, 2010-2014

Fillet Type 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Skinless/Boneless $3,735 $3,316 $3,260 $3,050 $2,850

 Pct. of Production 60% 69% 60% 68% 73%

Deep-Skinned $3,934 $3,702 $3,721 $3,577 $3,484

 Pct. of Production 36% 28% 36% 29% 24%

Source: AKFIN. 

Shoreside plants often produce the most pollock fillets in Alaska, but the at-sea sector is typically not far 

behind (Figure 7). One area where the two sectors differ is production of deep-skin fillets. The at-sea sector 

produces between two-thirds to three-quarters of Alaska’s deep-skin pollock production, with shoreside 

plants accounting for the balance. Deep-skinned fillets accounted for 24 percent of total fillet production 

volume in 2014. Not surprisingly, deep-skinned fillets sell for higher prices; however, actual fillet production 

is largely dictated by market demand for different types of fillets. Skinless/boneless fillet production

increased 102 percent between 2010 and 2014, while deep-skinned fillet production increased only 8 

percent. First wholesale prices for all pollock fillet products have declined in recent years due to larger 

production volumes and competition from Russian pollock.10 Once-frozen fillets processed by catcher 

processors in both Alaska and Russia fetch the highest prices in global markets, followed by on-shore 

processing plants in Alaska.11

 10 (Vovchenko, 2015)

11 (Pacific Seafood, 2014a)

$2,200

$2,400

$2,600

$2,800

$3,000

$3,200

$3,400

$3,600

$3,800

$4,000

$4,200

0

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

140,000

160,000

180,000

200,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value/mt

Volume (in mt) Value/mt
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 17

Figure 7. Alaska Pollock Fillets Volume and Value by Processing Sector, 2005-2014

 Source: AKFIN.

Key Fillet Market Analysis 

Export markets are critically important to Alaska’s pollock industry. It is estimated that export markets buy 

approximately two-thirds of all Alaska pollock fillet production (Table 13). More than half of all Alaska pollock 

fillets go directly to European markets. In addition, the majority of Alaska pollock fillets exported to China are 

eventually re-exported to Europe. Germany is the largest single market for Alaska pollock fillets while the 

United States is the second-largest market. 

Table 13. Sales of Alaska Pollock Fillets to Key Markets (mt), 2010-2014

Market 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. of Total 

(5-yr. Avg.)

Europe1 59,576 96,133 85,114 102,330 119,809 59%

China* 12,479 11,238 8,802 4,632 4,526 5%

South Korea* 6,907 3,374 1,602 848 839 2%

Other Countries 2,644 3,226 4,404 7,078 7,078 3%

Total Exports 81,605 113,971 99,921 114,888 132,252 69%

U.S. (Estimated)2 29,886 52,956 52,629 61,829 51,718 31%

Total Production 111,491 166,927 152,550 176,717 183,970 -

Est. Production to 

Export Markets 73% 68% 66% 65% 72% -

* Denotes countries which primarily re-process and/or re-export product to other markets. 1 Does not include Russia, Ukraine, or some minor European markets.

2 Estimated based on annual production less calendar year exports.

Note: Data pertains to primary exports only, does not portray product which may be re-exported to other markets. 

Source: NMFS Trade Data, ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database, and McDowell Group estimates. 

The percentage of Alaska pollock fillet production exported directly to Europe increased to 65 percent in 

2014, from 58 percent in the previous year. Due to a lack of data, sales to the domestic market must be 

estimated by subtracting production from exports. These estimates suggest domestic market purchases 

increased significantly in 2011; however, given the sharp increase in production it is likely that some of that 

year’s volume went into inventory and was sold the following year. 

$0

$50

$100

$150

$200

$250

$300

$350

0

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($millions)

Volume (mt)

Shoreside Volume At-Sea Volume Shoreside Value At-Sea Value
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 18

EUROPE

Europe is the world’s largest market for pollock fillets and is also the largest market for any Alaska groundfish 

or crab product, in terms of first wholesale value. Export markets typically consume half to two-thirds of 

Alaska’s pollock fillet production, and European countries account for 80 to 90 percent of all U.S. pollock fillet 

export value. European markets imported 119,809 mt of Alaska pollock fillets in 2014, worth $348 million.

Pollock fillets are generally exported to Europe as frozen fillet blocks and processed by regional 

manufacturers into breaded/battered fish fingers or products similar to schlemmerfilets.12 Food service 

operators purchase a mix of value-added products and plain frozen pollock fillets (disaggregated into smaller 

units). Pollock fillets are utilized as a whitefish commodity, and primarily function as raw material for 

secondary processors. Although it is not possible to quantify precisely, industry interviews suggest pollock 

fillets are more often sold to European consumers via retailers, with less production entering the foodservice 

sector. Some common types of retail pollock products sold in Europe are shown below. 

Germany is the largest consumer of pollock fillets, although France and the U.K. are also major consumer 

markets in Europe. Europe has a long history of whitefish consumption, so the presence of pollock as an 

affordable substitute to cod is common in most countries. Overall consumption of finished product is mostly 

a function of population, the prevalence of modern grocery stores, and median household incomes. Pollock is 

sometimes processed into a salted product for markets in Portugal and Spain. 

Most secondary processing into finished products occurs in Germany, France, and Poland. Frozen retail products sold 

in the U.K. are a mix of domestic production and offerings from central Europe (using Alaska and Russian pollock). 

Alaska pollock fillets are primarily exported to Europe via Germany and the Netherlands. Germany’s Hamburg 

and the Netherlands’ Rotterdam are major ports. Overall, these two countries accounted for nearly 90 

percent of total Alaska pollock fillet exports to European markets in 2014 (Figure 8). The total volume and 

 12 A pre-packaged frozen fish dinner with a coating of toppings consisting of breadcrumbs, herbs, spices, and/or sauces. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 19

value of Alaska pollock fillets exported to Europe has increased substantially in recent years; however, the 

export value/mt was down 16 percent in 2014 compared to 2010. 

Figure 8. Exports of Alaska Pollock Fillets to Major European Markets, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Export Volume (mt) 59,576 96,133 85,115 102,330 119,809

Export Value ($thousands) $205,860 $304,019 $267,796 $306,382 $347,635

Average Export Value per Metric Ton ($US) $3,455 $3,162 $3,146 $2,994 $2,902

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export database, compiled by McDowell Group.

Alaska once-frozen pollock fillets accounted for about a third of all pollock fillets imported into Europe, over 

the past 5 years (2010-2014)(Table 14). However, Alaska’s market share increased to 39 percent in 2014. The 

balance comes from China - mostly re-processed, twice-frozen fillet block made from Russian pollock - or 

directly from Russia as a single-frozen fillet blocks. 

Europe imports between 240,000 and 300,000 metric tons of pollock fillets per year from China, Alaska, and 

Russia. Import volumes have been steady in recent years around 300,000 mt. 

Table 14. European Imports of Pollock Fillets from Major Producers (mt), 2010-2014

Exporter 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. of Total 

(5-yr. Avg.)

China* 163,165 178,318 166,402 169,966 164,117 59%

U.S. (Alaska) 59,576 96,133 85,115 102,330 119,809 32%

Russia 23,475 23,893 19,917 29,862 23,940 8%

Total 246,216 298,344 271,434 302,158 307,866 -

*Consists primarily of Alaska pollock caught in Russia and the United States

Note: China and Russia exports includes pollock fillet sales to all European Union countries, plus Norway, Switzerland, and Belarus. 

Source: Global Trade Atlas and ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database. 

Secondary processors are the largest buyers of pollock fillets in Europe. These companies transform frozen 

blocks of pollock fillets into ready-to-heat products for retail customers, package fillets into smaller quantities 

(typically in bags), and sell frozen fillets in smaller quantities to foodservice distributors. Unlike surimi and roe 

products, large European buyers do not own any significant stake in companies producing Alaska pollock. 

Germany

68%

Netherlands

21%

France

4%

United 

Kingdom

Other 4%

Countries

3%

$0

$50,000

$100,000

$150,000

$200,000

$250,000

$300,000

$350,000

$400,000

0

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

140,000

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Export Value ($000s)

Volume (mt)

Export Volume (mt) Export Value ($000s)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 20

Major European buyers of Alaska pollock fillets include:

• Aldi (private label)

• Bofrost

• Carrefour

• Findus Group (including Young’s brand)

• Frosta

• Iglo Foods Group (including BirdsEye brand)

• Lidl

• McDonalds Europe

• Metro (private label)

• Netto (private label)

• Pickenpack Europe

• Sainsburys (private label)

• Sodexo (distributor)

• Tesco (private label)

• Waitrose (private label)

Note: Data on exports of Alaska pollock fillets to Europe includes shipments to Germany, Poland, France, 

U.K., Netherlands, Belgium, Denmark, Czech Republic, Sweden, Italy, Spain, Finland, and Portugal. These 

countries align with European regions in the ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database, compiled by 

McDowell Group. Exports of Alaska pollock fillets to other European countries are negligible and have not 

been included in this profile to maintain consistency with existing data sources. Pollock fillet import data 

from China and Russia includes all European Union countries, as well as Norway, Switzerland, and 

Belarus.

EUROPEAN MARKET IMPACT OF RUSSIAN POLLOCK CERTIFICATION

Several major European retailers have committed to only selling certain seafood products from sustainable 

fisheries, certified by the Marine Stewardship Council (MSC). Until Russia’s Sea of Okhotsk pollock fishery was 

certified in September 2013, Alaska’s pollock fisheries were the only source for certified pollock fillets. This 

effectively gave Alaska producers sole access to a sizeable, premium market. Once-frozen Alaska pollock 

fillets used to sell at a significant premium to twice-frozen Russian pollock, typically on the order of $300 to 

$500 per ton or more due to Alaska’s certification status but also based on the intrinsic difference in quality 

for once-frozen product. Russian certification, along with larger harvests in both countries, has roughly 

doubled the supply of pollock fillets available to “MSC-only” buyers in Europe. The result has been a steady 

decline in wholesale prices for both Alaska and Russian pollock fillets, as well as a declining premium for 

once-frozen Alaska product. In addition, discount retailers in Germany (the largest consumer of pollock fillets) 

continue to gain market share by competing on price. While there have been normal increases in fishing and 

processing costs, this trend has put pressure on retailers to keep retail prices low causing secondary 

processors to minimize raw material costs as much as possible.

UNITED STATES

Home to McDonalds’ Filet-O-Fish sandwich, the domestic 

market is the second-largest consumer of Alaska pollock 

fillets in the world. In contrast to Europe, Americans consume 

more pollock through foodservice channels than retail 

outlets. Pollock is the primary whitefish species used in most 

generic fried fish sandwiches, although it is becoming more 

common to see the species name identified in product 

messaging. Fish sandwich patties sold by foodservice 

operators are typically made using minced pollock meat 

and/or whole fillets. Breaded and/or battered pollock fillets 

are also common foodservice fare in the United States; these 

products utilize either whole fillets or fillet portions. Frozen 

fish sticks are common retail products; also made from pollock 

fillets and minced meat. 

Wikimedia Commons, lic: Public domain, by Evan Amos.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 21

It is possible to estimate the U.S. supply of pollock fillets by subtracting Alaska pollock fillet exports from 

domestic production, and adding this figure to imports of pollock fillets. Although the process provides some 

visibility about the nature and size of the U.S. market, it cannot account for the impact of Alaska pollock fillet 

inventories. Changes to the inventory of Alaska pollock fillets are added or subtracted to the U.S. supply 

estimate. Large supply estimates in 2011 and 2012 are outliers and likely the result of increasing inventory 

due to growing Alaska fillet production. However, when averaged over several years, it is a reasonable 

method for estimating market share and supply, given the lack of data. 

The U.S. market consumes approximately 110,000 mt of pollock fillets per year (Table 15). Although the 

species name implies the product comes from Alaska, a significant percentage of pollock fillets consumed by 

Americans likely come from Russian fisheries. The United States imports large volumes of pollock fillets from 

China, which primarily utilize Russian pollock as a raw material. U.S. import volume and total supply 

estimates declined sharply from 2010 to 2014, suggesting a weakening market for fillet products. 

Table 15. Estimated U.S. Pollock Fillet Market Supply (mt), 2010-2014

Year

Alaska Pollock 

Fillet 

Production

Imports Exports Est. U.S. 

Supply

Est. Once-Frozen 

Product 

from Alaska

Pct.

Alaska

2010 111,491 70,278 81,605 100,164 29,886 30%

2011 166,927 72,938 113,971 125,894 52,956 42%

2012 152,550 51,845 99,921 104,474 52,629 50%

2013 176,717 55,104 114,888 116,933 61,829 53%

2014 183,970 49,817 132,252 101,535 51,718 51%

Five-year Avg. 158,331 59,996 108,527 109,800 49,804 45%

Source: NMFS Foreign Trade Data, AKFIN, ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database, and McDowell Group estimates.

Pollock fillets are usually put through a secondary manufacturing process before reaching American 

consumers. Most fillets are bought by companies unaffiliated with harvesting companies in Alaska or Russia. 

However, there is some integration in the U.S. market. Alaska’s largest producer of pollock products, Trident 

Seafoods, sells finished product to retailers (in addition to wholesale customers). Unisea, Alaska’s thirdlargest pollock producer, is owned by NISSUI and supplies raw material to Gorton’s – a popular brand for 

frozen whitefish products. Foodservice operators utilizing Alaska pollock typically own or contract with 

processing facilities.

Major U.S. buyers of Alaska pollock fillets and minced meat, which are not affiliated with Alaska producers, 

include:

• Burger King

• Costco

• Kroger (private label)

• McDonalds

• Pinnacle Foods Group (Van de Kamps brand)

• Target (private label)

• Walmart (private label)

OTHER MARKETS

Russia and Brazil are also key markets for pollock; however, the majority of pollock consumed in these countries 

comes from Russia or consists of head/gut Alaska pollock processed in China. Alaska producers exported just over 

1,000 mt of pollock fillets directly to the two countries in 2014 – a relatively small figure compared to sales in 

Europe and the United States. Brazil and Russia access and use pollock in very different ways.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 22

RUSSIA

As the world’s largest producer of pollock products, it is not surprising that Russians consume significant 

quantities of pollock. Estimates about market size vary, but recent claims made by Russian fishing companies 

suggest demand for pollock rivals that of the United States, perhaps even exceeding it. The Russian market is 

expected to grow due to rising costs for imported seafood, larger Russian pollock harvests, and government 

directives which advocate consumption of domestically-produced food products. Russia imported 13,300 mt 

of pollock fillets from China in 2014, but the majority of Russian consumption comes from product caught 

and processed domestically. Exports of Alaska pollock fillets to Russia have increased in recent years, but the 

trade embargo on U.S. frozen seafood products has effectively closed the Russian market for Alaska pollock. 

Wholesale Russian pollock prices out of Vladivostok are up by approximately a third in 2015 over the 

previous year, mostly due to the weakness of the Russian ruble.13 With a weaker Russian ruble, Russian 

buyers must pay higher prices (in rubles) to prevent product from being sold into the export market. Russian 

consumers often fry pollock or use it in soups. 

BRAZIL

Brazil is the fourth-largest consumer of pollock fillets, in most years. The South American nation seems an 

odd place to find large volumes of a North Pacific whitefish, but the nation’s culinary heritage and population 

create a match for pollock. Most of Brazil’s 200 million residents trace their ancestry back to Portuguese and 

Spanish settlers. Salted cod, called bacalhau in Brazil, is a popular dish in both Portuguese and Spanish 

cuisine. Although cod is preferred, pollock again functions as a more affordable substitute in the Brazilian salt 

cod market. Bacalhau is commonly used in fish balls (bolinhos de bacalhau), salads, and soups. 

Virtually all of Brazil’s pollock products are imported from China, although Alaska producers are making 

progress in accessing the market directly (Table 16). Imports of frozen pollock fillets from China fell in 2014, 

but salted pollock imports have grown steadily since 2010. 

Table 16. Brazil Imports of Frozen Pollock and Salted/Dried

Fish from China and United States (mt), 2010-2014

Product/Country 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Imports from China

Frozen Pollock Fillets 21,822 58,953 61,569 64,507 36,158

Salted/Dried Fish (Mostly Pollock & Cod) 5,308 9,143 12,511 14,696 16,150

Total China Imports 27,130 68,096 74,080 79,203 52,308

Direct Exports from U.S. 

Frozen Pollock (H/G) 0 0 518 54 65

Frozen Pollock Fillets 0 0 0 119 387

Total U.S. Exports 0 0 518 173 452

Source: Global Trade Atlas and ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database. 

Competing Supply

Alaska pollock’s primary competition comes from twice-frozen Russian pollock fillets. The vast majority of 

Russian pollock production is exported as a frozen head/gutted block product to China, where it is thawed, 

filleted, then re-frozen and exported to other countries. Since nearly all Russian pollock are eventually turned 

into fillet products, rather than surimi or other forms, it is possible to estimate fillet supply from Russia by 

applying an average recovery rate to the round weight harvest. 

 13 www.fishnotice.com/prices/vladivostok?pid=155 (accessed 09/09/2015). 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 23

Total production of pollock fillets increased an estimated 17 percent between 2010 and 2014. While Russian 

harvests remained steady, Alaska harvests and fillet production rose substantially (Table 17). As a result, 

Alaska accounted for an increasing share of global pollock fillet production over the past 5 years. 

Table 17. Pollock Fillet Production from Alaska and Russia (mt), 2010-2014

Exporter 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Pollock Fillet Production (Metric Tons)

Russian Fillet Production1 443,668 442,342 457,137 436,442 432,880

Alaska Fillet Production 111,491 166,927 152,550 176,717 183,970

Total AP Fillet Production 527,291 610,727 613,150 645,717 616,850

Pct. Alaska Production 21% 27% 25% 27% 30%

Pollock Fillet Production (YOY Percent Change)

Russian Fillet Production 19% 0% 3% -5% -1%

Alaska Fillet Production -5% 50% -9% 16% 4%

Total AP Fillet Production 11% 16% <1% 5% -4%

Avg. Alaska Pollock 

First Wholesale Value/mt $3,789 $3,416 $3,414 $3,158 $3,305

1 Estimated production, based on a 28 percent recovery rate from total round weight harvest. 

Note: China and Russia exports includes pollock fillet sales to all European Union countries, plus Norway, Switzerland, and Belarus. 

Source: NMFS Production data, ADF&G (COAR), and McDowell Group estimates (based on FAO and Groundfish Forum harvest estimates). 

With rising Alaska fillet production, prices for pollock fillets have declined. The average first wholesale 

value/mt in 2014 was down 13 percent versus the average value/mt in 2010; however, due to increased 

production overall first wholesale value for Alaska fillet production increased 44 percent. 

Other whitefish species such as cod, haddock, saithe, hake, hoki, sole, tilapia, and pangasius also impact the 

market for Alaska pollock fillets. For information about production of other whitefish species see the 

competing production and supply section on page 51. 

Wholesale Market Profile of Alaska Pollock Surimi

Surimi accounted for 32 percent of Alaska pollock’s first wholesale volume and 31 percent of first wholesale 

value in 2014. Nearly 184,000 mt of pollock surimi was processed in Alaska, with a first wholesale value of 

$441 million in 2014. Japan, Europe, South Korea, and the United States are key surimi markets. 

Product Description 

Surimi is an odorless, protein-rich white paste that is an intermediate product used in a variety of surimi 

seafood products (such as imitation crab sticks). Pollock are first filleted and then minced. Blood and other 

odorous substances are removed through rinsing with water. Surimi blocks are produced when the washed 

and pulverized minced meat is mixed with additives such as salt, starch, egg white, and sugar, and then 

frozen and packaged. The commercial grade of surimi depends on the length of the process and the purity of 

the product. Surimi technology has improved over the years, with the yield increasing from 12 percent to 

over 30 percent.14

The general Alaska pollock surimi production process is as follows:15

• De-heading, gutting, de-boning, skinning, and filleting the fish to separate the flesh

• Mincing the fish flesh

 14 (Park, 2014)

15 (Vidal-Giraud, Chateau, FAO and GLOBEFISH, 2007)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 24

• Washing the fish flesh (several times) to remove undesirable water-soluble materials such as fats, 

inorganic salts, and some proteins

• Refining the fish flesh to remove any residual materials such as skin, bones, and scales

• De-watering the fish flesh in a screw press

• Mixing the fish flesh with cryoprotective compounds such as sugar and sorbitol

• Freezing the fish flesh into blocks and packing it

Surimi has been used to preserve and consume whitefish for almost a thousand years in Japan, but it wasn’t 

until after World War II that surimi production became industrialized.16 It can be made from a variety of fish, 

but Alaska pollock surimi is sought after for its white color, binding ability, and meat quality. Alaska surimi 

production started in 1984 and it continues in on-shore and at-sea operations today. 

There are hundreds of surimi seafood product varieties. The broad categories include: kamaboko (steamed), 

chikuma (broiled), satsuma-age (fried), and seafood analogs (e.g. imitation crab sticks). The quality of surimi 

is determined by a few main characteristics including its gel-forming properties, color (the whiter, the better), 

and purity.

Supply Chain

Alaska pollock surimi blocks are produced by two main vessel types: 

catcher-processors with onboard surimi processing capacity and 

catcher vessels that deliver unprocessed pollock to shoreside surimi 

plants. Alaska processors sell frozen surimi blocks to secondary 

processors, some of which may be affiliated with the primary 

processing company, and distribution companies in Asia, Europe, 

and the United States. Secondary processors use surimi blocks from 

Alaska to create surimi seafood products tailored to various end 

markets (Figure 9). 

Figure 9. Alaska Pollock Surimi Supply Chain

 16 (Park, 2014)

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.

Alaska Catcher

Vessels

Shoreside

Processors

Motherships

Floating Processors

AFA

Catcher Processors

Frozen Surimi

Blocks

Surimi Seafood 

Processors in Japan, 

Korea, Europe, 

Former Soviet States, 

& U.S.

Retailers & 

Distributors
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 25

Alaska Production Analysis

In 2014, surimi accounted for 32 percent of Alaska pollock production volume and 31 percent of first 

wholesale value. Surimi production reached 183,600 mt last year and had a value of $441 million. Production 

volume has been relatively consistent outside of 2008 to 2010, typically ranging from about 150,000 to 

200,000 mt (Figure 10 and Table 18). 

Figure 10. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pollock Surimi, 2005-2014

Table 18. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Pollock Surimi, $Millions

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$426 $365 $353 $526 $250 $357 $418 $524 $378 $441

Source: AKFIN. 

First wholesale value is more variable, as the price of Alaska pollock surimi can vary widely from year to year 

depending on global surimi market conditions. Average surimi material prices were $2.40/kg in 2014, up 8.4

percent from the previous year. 

 Figure 11. Alaska Pollock Surimi First Wholesale Volume and Value by Processing Sector, 2004-2014

 Source: AKFIN.

$2,000

$2,500

$3,000

$3,500

$4,000

$4,500

0

50,000

100,000

150,000

200,000

250,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value/mt

Volume (in mt) Value/mt

$0

$50

$100

$150

$200

$250

$300

0

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($millions)

Volume (mt)

At-Sea Volume Shoreside Volume At-Sea Value Shoreside Value
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 26

Alaska pollock surimi production is split almost evenly between shoreside plants and at-sea processors, and 

this relationship has been relatively consistent over time. Surimi produced at-sea tends to command a 

premium price (Figure 11). 

Key Market Analysis

Approximately 90 percent of Alaska pollock surimi is sold to export markets(Table 19). In 2014, Japan and South 

Korea imported 70 percent of all Alaska pollock surimi production. The remaining markets included Europe, 

United States, China, Russia, and former Soviet-bloc countries. Europe is a larger market than the export data 

below suggests, importing significant volumes of surimi from South Korea (containing Alaska pollock as well as 

surimi made from other species). U.S. surimi exports in 2014 were 20 percent above the previous 4 year average. 

Table 19. U.S. Exports of Alaska Pollock Surimi by Country (mt), 2010-2014

Country 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Pct. Change 

over 

2010-2013 

Average

Pct. of 

Total

(5-yr. Avg.)

Japan 45,377 53,810 67,609 56,292 71,870 29% 38%

South Korea 33,671 41,332 44,788 61,516 56,804 25% 31%

Europe 10,992 28,391 32,568 35,359 25,920 -3% 17%

Russia 1,689 3,851 3,457 3,592 2,235 -29% 2%

China 515 1,144 370 1,466 1,281 47% 1%

Other Countries 1,629 4,978 2,407 4,127 4,534 38% 2%

Total Surimi Exports 93,358 132,363 150,829 160,886 161,363 20% -

U.S. (Estimated) 10,237 15,709 16,214 9,373 22,278 73% 10%

Total Production 103,595 148,072 167,043 170,259 183,641 25% -

Pct. Exported 90% 89% 90% 94% 88% - -

Note: Reflects direct exports only. Does not reflect final market destination. 

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database and AKFIN. 

The global production of raw surimi material in 2013 was approximately 820,000 metric tons, which was

converted into approximately 3 million metric tons of surimi seafood products.17 Alaska’s pollock fishery 

accounts for 20 and 25 percent of global surimi production. Japan is the largest market; however, other Asian 

countries such as China and Korea are also important surimi consumers.

JAPAN

As the birthplace of surimi and its associated food science technology, Japan is the world’s largest end market 

for surimi seafood products, consuming 40 percent of global surimi production. Large companies and 

artisanal shops in Japan process over 1,000 different surimi products. Consumption has declined since the 

mid-1970s, but has stabilized since 2010 at roughly 570,000 mt of surimi seafood products per year.18

Surimi, known as neri in Japan, is a popular, convenient protein that is prepared in numerous ways, including 

fried, boiled, steamed, baked, and broiled. The image below depicts 14 different types of surimi products in 

Japan. Consumption and popularity of various surimi products is often specific to locales within Japan. 

Japan directly imported 38 percent of Alaska pollock surimi produced from 2010 to 2014, averaging 88,000 

mt of direct imports worth $269 million per year. Including product routed through Korea and other 

countries, 55 to 60 percent of Alaska’s total pollock surimi production goes to the Japanese market. 

 17 (Seaman, 2014)

18 (Park, 2014)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 27

Alaska accounted for 36 percent of Japan’s imported surimi volume between 2010 and 2014, and including 

domestic surimi production Alaska product comprises 25 to 30 percent of the total market share in Japan

(Table 20). Competing suppliers include Thailand, India, China, and Vietnam. Thailand’s tropical surimi 

production has declined in recent years and India has increased market share as a lower cost producer (see 

Competing Supply section on page 51 for information about tropical surimi). 

Table 20. Japan Surimi Imports from Major Producers (mt), 2010-2014

Exporter 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. of Total 

(5-yr. Avg.)

U.S. (Alaska) 62,194 79,817 93,990 94,070 109,957 36%

Thailand 55,055 57,723 50,782 36,661 34,159 19%

India 25,334 28,895 29,174 28,083 33,969 12%

China 29,163 26,817 14,535 13,459 19,078 8%

Vietnam 23,691 18,756 18,576 12,122 16,753 7%

All Others 38,233 35,870 37,771 34,875 37,599 15%

Total 240,171 252,093 249,403 224,725 259,386 -

Pct. from Alaska 26% 32% 38% 42% 42% -

Source: Japan Trade Statistics (Ministry of Finance), compiled by McDowell Group. 

Imported surimi prices have trended up in Japan during recent years, partly due to lower domestic 

production and a weaker Japanese yen (Table 21). Alaska pollock surimi prices were lower than tropical 

surimi, on average, in Japan during recent years. This is due primarily to changes in supply patterns rather 

than the intrinsic quality of the product. Alaska pollock surimi production has increased significantly since 

2010 while tropical surimi production declined in 2013 after years of steady growth. In addition, prices for 

common types of fish used in tropical surimi have increased. 

Photo Courtesy of Genuine Alaska Pollock Producers.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 28

Table 21. Total and Unit Value of Japan Surimi Imports, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Pct. Change 

from 

4 yr. Avg.

Total Import Value - millions yen ¥72,321 ¥69,913 ¥77,436 ¥71,924 ¥88,979 22%

Total Import Value - Yen/kg ¥301 ¥277 ¥310 ¥320 ¥343 14%

Alaska Surimi Import Value – millions yen ¥20,723 ¥19,580 ¥26,441 ¥23,452 ¥30,693 36%

Alaska Surimi Import Value – millions USD $236 $246 $331 $240 $290 10%

Alaska Surimi Import Value – Yen/kg. ¥333 ¥245 ¥281 ¥249 ¥279 1%

Alaska Surimi Import Value – USD/kg. $3.80 $3.08 $3.53 $2.55 $2.64 -19%

Average Exchange Rate (Yen/USD) 87.8 79.7 79.8 97.6 105.9 23%

Note: Value figures are CIF Japan. U.S. dollar conversions were made using average annual exchange rates from OANDA.com. 

Source: Japan Trade Statistics (Ministry of Finance), compiled by McDowell Group. 

EUROPE AND RUSSIA

Europe and former Soviet states are the second largest market for Alaska pollock surimi. Alaska producers 

exported 28,200 mt of surimi worth $61.2 million to Europe and Russia in 2014. Alaska surimi accounts for 

approximately half (33,000 mt) of the market’s total surimi consumption, including Alaska product routed 

through other countries. 

Russia, France, and Spain are the market’s largest surimi consumers, accounting for 71 percent of the 

region’s total consumption.19 The majority of Europeans consume surimi as imitation crab stick products, 

although numerous other surimi product forms are sold. A surimi-based substitute for baby eels, known as 

angulas, is popular in Spain and Portugal. 

SOUTH KOREA

The United States exported 56,804 mt of Alaska pollock surimi to South Korea in 2014, which accounted for 

44 percent of Alaska pollock surimi exports. However, Korean import statistics suggest only 18,715 mt 

actually entered the country. The balance is likely held in bonded, duty-free cold storage warehouses before 

being shipped to other markets (primarily Japan, Europe, and Russia). Despite the prevalent re-export trade, 

South Korea is the second-largest buyer of Alaska surimi in terms of a single country (in most years). The 

2012 Korea-U.S. Free Trade Agreement has deepened the economic ties between Korea and the United 

States and increased consumption of U.S. pollock surimi.20 However, Korea has played the role of the North 

Pacific’s chest freezer for decades. 

South Korea imported 128,200 mt of all surimi varieties 

in 2014 worth $226.4 million, or about half as much 

import volume as Japan. Vietnam and China are the 

country’s top surimi suppliers, while Alaska accounted 

for 15 percent of total surimi imports. Korea is one of the 

largest manufacturers of surimi seafood products after 

Japan, supplying its own domestic market and other 

international markets.21 

Surimi products are traditionally consumed in Korea as 

eomuk (fried) or as crabsticks. Eomuk bars (pictured to 

the right) are a popular street food in Korea with 

 19 (Welling, 2014)

20 (Yoo, 2013)

21 (Park, 2014)

Eomuk fish cake, a popular Korean street food. Wikimedia 

Commons, CC-BY-SA 3.0 lic., Junho Jung
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 29

hundreds of variations. The bars, who’s closest American translation might be the corn dog, are usually 

served on a stick or accompanied by broth or sauces. 

Competing Supply

It is important to note that there are two tiers in which Alaska pollock surimi has competition. One is the raw 

material, which is minced fish. The second is surimi production, which requires advanced food science 

technology to produce a variety of surimi products.

Pollock surimi accounted for 26 percent of total surimi production over the past 5 years (2010-2014). 

Virtually all pollock surimi is produced in Alaska or comes from Alaska fisheries. Tropical surimi dominates 

global surimi production, accounting for about two-thirds of total production. China, Vietnam, Thailand, and 

India are the largest tropical surimi producers. 

Table 22. Global Surimi Production (mt), 2010-2014

Surimi Type 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 5 Yr. Avg. Pct.

of Surimi Supply

Major 

Producers

Alaska Pollock 160,900 208,800 227,100 216,000 213,000 26% Alaska

Cold Water 34,000 30,700 34,100 37,000 37,500 5% WA/OR, 

Argentina, Chile

Tropical Fish 485,000 537,000 576,600 528,000 550,000 68% China, Vietnam, 

Thailand, India

Other 33,000 19,000 20,500 8,500 4,500 1% -

Total 712,900 795,500 858,300 789,500 805,000 - -

Source: Future Seafood Group (via Undercurrent News).

Surimi is made from a variety of fish species. Alaska pollock is the most widely used species, but other types 

of surimi utilize a range of other fish. Some common species used in surimi production are listed below. 

Tropical Surimi Species

• Threadfin bream (Nemipterus japonicus), also known as ‘itoyori’ – most common tropical species

• Lizardfish (Saurida tumbil), also known as ‘eso’ 

• Big Eye (Priacanthus spp.), also known as ‘kinmedai’ 

Cold Water Surimi Species

• Pacific hake (Merluccius productus), also known as Pacific whiting

• Hoki (Macruronus novaezelandiae)

• Northern/Southern blue whiting (Micromesistius poutassou/australis)

• Jack mackerel (Trachurus murphyi)

• Atka mackerel (Pleurogrammus monopterygius)

Many countries have active fisheries that support surimi production. In terms of a single country, the United 

States is the second-largest surimi producer in the world. Most U.S. surimi production comes from Alaska 

(pollock) and the Pacific hake fishery off the coast of Washington and Oregon. As shown in Table 22, pollock 

accounts for 26 percent of surimi supply, a small share compared to tropical fish species which account for 68 

percent of surimi production. Russia occasionally produces a relatively insignificant volume of surimi, relative 

to other producers. China, India, and Southeast Asia (including Thailand and Vietnam), are key tropical surimi 

producers, with China typically claiming the title of world’s largest surimi producer. Argentina, Chile, and the 

Faroe Islands are important cold water surimi producers. It should be noted that surimi production statistics 

are not universally tracked. Although FAO compiles data on minced fish and surimi production, the manner in 

which data is categorized do not allow for comprehensive production accounting. As a result, industry 

estimates (which are based on public and private data) are a more reliable source of information. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 30

Wholesale Market Profile of Alaska Pollock Roe

Pollock roe commands the highest price of all major pollock products at $6.14/kg and was worth $148 million 

in total first wholesale value in 2014. It accounted for 11 percent of Alaska pollock’s total first wholesale 

value but only 4 percent of production volume (24,120 mt). Pollock roe is widely consumed as a condiment 

and during holidays in Japan. South Korea is the world’s only other sizeable market. 

Product Description and Supply Chain 

Pollock roe production occurs when the fish are spawning. Due to 

the variety of spawning timing within pollock stocks, the spawning 

season extends from November to May but most production 

occurs during the late winter and early spring. After the fish is 

headed, roe is extracted during the gutting process and rapidly 

frozen before deterioration occurs. Roe prices are tied to the 

quality of the roe, which varies greatly. Lower grade roe might have 

defects such as discoloring, broken skeins, or be discounted due to 

roe maturity (eggs are too young or too old). Product caught and 

processed at sea tends to command the highest prices with 

average prices of $7.50/kg compared to $4.90/kg shoreside.22

Pollock roe is traditionally sold to wholesale buyers in frozen block 

form, packed into 49.5 lb cases each containing three blocks of roe.

Pollock roe is an export product. Frozen Alaska pollock roe is sold at 

auctions in Seattle, WA,23 while Russian pollock roe is often sold at 

auctions held in Busan, South Korea. However, larger volumes of Alaska product is sold directly to buyers 

through negotiated contracts. “Direct sales” have become more common in recent years, based on pricing 

discovered through the auction process. The pollock roe supply chain is vertically integrated for large 

companies that maintain a pipeline from the raw material all the way to distribution in markets in Japan and 

South Korea. In fact, 80 percent of Alaska’s pollock quota is shared by four large vertically-integrated 

companies: Trident Seafoods, Maruha Nichiro, Nissui, and American Seafoods.24 Each of these companies 

own stakes in Alaska fishing vessels, Alaska shoreside plants, and distributors in Japan and South Korea. 

After frozen pollock roe is exported to Asia, it eventually 

undergoes secondary processing. Japan, Korea, China, and in 

Thailand are common destinations, where it is processed by

defrosting and brining the roe in spices or salt.25 In Japan, 

pollock roe is often sold in the skein and consumed as salted roe 

(tarako) or spicy/marinated roe (karashi mentaiko). The product 

is commonly utilized as a condiment and as an ingredient in 

soups, rice balls (onigiri), rice dishes, and pastas. High quality 

pollock roe is a popular gift during holidays and consumed 

individually with sake. 

 22 AFKIN

23 (Stewart, 2013)

24 (The Fish Site, 2015)

25 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.

Photo from NMFS (AFSC).

Mentaiko gift box, Japanese pollock roe 

retail product.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 31

Figure 12. Alaska Pollock Roe Supply Chain

Alaska Production Analysis

Alaska pollock roe is an important element of the pollock product mix. Although it is a low-volume product, 

roe assumes the highest unit price of any pollock product. In 2014, only 24,120 metric tons was produced, 

but the wholesale value $148.2 million (11 percent of the species’ wholesale value) (Figure 13 and Table 23).

Figure 13. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pollock Roe, 2005-2014

Table 23. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Pollock Roe, $Millions

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$353 $291 $262 $240 $163 $98 $153 $169 $116 $148

Source: AKFIN. 

Historically (prior to 2007), roe often accounted for one-third to one-fifth of Alaska pollock’s total first 

wholesale value. It was a consistently valuable market. However, the percentage of roe value compared to all 

Alaska pollock products has declined significantly in recent years (Figure 14). Since 2010, roe has only 

generated 9 to 12 percent of total first wholesale value. This market development has an even deeper impact 

$5,000

$6,000

$7,000

$8,000

$9,000

$10,000

$11,000

$12,000

$13,000

$14,000

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value/mt

Volume (in mt) Value/mt

Alaska

Catcher Vessels

Motherships

(Floating Processors)

Shoreside

Processors

Catcher

Processors

Pollock Roe Auctions in 

Seattle & Direct Sales

Secondary Processors

& Trading Companies in 

Japan

Secondary Processors

& Trading Companies in 

South Korea

Japanese

Consumer Market

South Korean

Consumer Market
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 32

considering there is virtually no trade-off with roe, unlike surimi and fillets which both utilize pollock meat. 

Roe creates a substantial additional income stream (in addition to the meat), and is relatively inexpensive to 

produce. 

Figure 14. Alaska Pollock First Wholesale Value and Roe as Percent of Total Value, 1992-2014

Alaska pollock roe production reached 24,100 mt in 2014, the highest volume since 2007. Pollock roe 

production is primarily a function of overall harvest volume; however, it can fluctuate significantly based on 

roe recovery/maturity and harvest distribution. For instance, harvest volume increased 35 percent between 

2010 and 2013, but roe production volumes generally showed minimal gains during the period (Figure 15). 

Roe yields increased in 2014, but were still less than those achieved during 2010. 

Figure 15. Alaska Pollock Roe Production and Harvest Volume (mt), 2010-2014.

Key Roe Market Analysis

Virtually all Alaska pollock roe is exported to Japan or South Korea. In 2014, exports totaled 21,778 mt and 

$153 million (Table 24). Japan is the dominant market, absorbing more than 90 percent of finished Alaska

pollock roe exports. South Korea is the only other sizeable market, but the majority of frozen pollock roe 

produced in Russia and Alaska generally passes through Korean auction houses (Russian product) or cold 

storage facilities before entering the Japanese market. A few Japanese companies operate secondary 

0

200,000

400,000

600,000

800,000

1,000,000

1,200,000

1,400,000

1,600,000

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Harvest Volume (mt)

Roe Production (mt)

Roe Production (mt) Harvest Volume (mt)

10%

0%

5%

10%

15%

20%

25%

30%

35%

40%

 $-

 $200

 $400

 $600

 $800

 $1,000

 $1,200

 $1,400

 $1,600

19921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Total Pollock Value ($millions)

Percent of Total Pollock Value

Total Value ($millions) Roe as % of Total Value

$0

 Source: AKFIN.

 Source: AKFIN.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 33

processing facilities in China, but domestic seafood industry contacts report very little product actually enters 

the vast Chinese consumer market. 

Efforts to develop other pollock roe markets outside of Japan have been largely unsuccessful, but given 

stagnant Japanese consumption patterns and the weaker yen, finding additional roe markets is extremely 

important to the long-term health of Alaska’s pollock industry. The industry is exploring opportunities to 

utilize more mentaiko and tarako in sushi preparations, as well as marketing it as an ingredient in pasta 

sauces and investigating new products which might find appeal in other caviar markets. 

Pollock roe supply has increased faster than demand in recent years. Larger production volumes, as well as a 

weaker yen and shifting Japanese consumer preferences, have resulted in lower prices and lower overall 

value for Alaska pollock roe. Large inventories and a sharp increase in supply led to declining prices in 2014, 

and trade press reports suggest prices fell further during the spring 2015 roe auction in Seattle. 

Table 24. Exports of Alaska Pollock Roe by Country (mt), 2010-2014

Export Destination 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. Change from 

4 Yr. Avg.

Japan 5,535 8,027 7,621 6,544 11,212 62%

South Korea 5,601 9,196 7,560 7,414 9,792 32%

China 138 312 554 901 764 61%

Other 3 4 172 108 10 -86%

Total Export Volume 11,276 17,539 15,907 14,967 21,778 46%

Total Export Value ($millions) $107.1 $158.4 $117.9 $114.2 $152.8 23%

Avg. Export Price per kg $9.16 $9.48 $6.34 $8.96 $7.07 -17%

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export database, compiled by McDowell Group.

During the spring and fall, large volume pollock roe buyers come from Japan and South Korea to buy roe from 

Alaska producers in auction markets held in Seattle. Spring auctions produce significantly higher sales 

volumes. The same buyers also purchase Russian pollock roe at large auctions in Busan and Tokyo.26

JAPAN

Japan is the world’s primary pollock roe market with imports of 44,800 mt in 2014, worth $330 million (Table 

25 and 26). Pollock roe is consumed in a variety of ways in Japan, including in sushi rolls, rice balls, soups, 

noodle dishes, or by itself. High-grade roe traditionally is used in gift boxes for holidays and special occasions. 

In the retail market, mid-grade is sold as salted roe. Food service purchases tend to purchase lower quality 

roe for rice and noodle dishes.27 Pollock roe is a traditional product in Japanese food culture, with 

consumption dating back to the mid-1900s. 

Table 25. Japan Pollock Roe Imports (mt), 2010-2014

Exporter 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. of Total 

(5-yr. Avg.)

Russia 25,379 23,736 25,179 21,008 24,916 61%

U.S. (Alaska) 13,368 14,520 15,260 13,158 19,720 39%

Others 59 151 180 237 164 <1%

Total 38,806 38,407 40,619 34,403 44,800 -

Pct. from Alaska 34% 38% 38% 38% 44% -

Source: Japan Trade Statistics (Ministry of Finance), compiled by McDowell Group. 

 26 (Nissui Group, n.d.)

27 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 34

Alaska product accounted for 39 percent of the import volume between 2010 and 2014. Russia is the 

country’s largest pollock roe supplier. Imports of Alaska product increased 40 percent in 2014 versus the 

prior 4 year average due to better roe yields and slightly higher TACs in Alaska pollock fisheries. Total imports 

increased 18 percent versus the prior 4 year average.

In yen terms, total Japanese pollock roe imports tend to range from 30 to 35 billion yen but the value of the 

market in dollar terms fluctuates with exchange rates (Table 26). Despite a 17 percent increase in import 

volume and a 7 percent increase in value (in yen terms) during 2014, Japan’s import value of all pollock roe in 

U.S. dollar terms decreased 10 percent compared to the prior 4 year average. 

Import volume and prices spiked in 2012. The March 2011 tsunami, which devastated many coastal Japanese 

communities, affected inventories, and led to a significantly weaker yen – a trend that continued until early 

2013. Prices in both yen and dollars terms have declined substantially since 2012. 

Table 26. Value of Japan Pollock Roe Imports, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. Change from 

4 Yr. Avg.

Total Import Value – millions USD $318 $357 $482 $309 $330 -10%

Total Import Value - millions yen ¥28,931 ¥28,849 ¥38,715 ¥30,567 ¥33,878 7%

Total Import Value - Yen/kg ¥746 ¥751 ¥953 ¥888 ¥756 -9%

Alaska Surimi Import Value – millions yen ¥8,896 ¥10,886 ¥13,640 ¥10,206 ¥13,916 28%

Alaska Surimi Import Value – millions USD $98 $135 $170 $103 $136 7%

Alaska Surimi Import Value – Yen/kg. ¥666 ¥750 ¥894 ¥776 ¥706 -8%

Alaska Surimi Import Value – USD/kg. $7.34 $9.32 $11.13 $7.84 $6.88 -23%

Average Exchange Rate (Yen/USD) 87.8 79.7 79.8 97.6 105.9 23%

Note: Value figures are CIF Japan. U.S. dollar figures are from Global Trade Atlas. Average exchange rates are from OANDA.com.

Source: Japan Trade Statistics (Ministry of Finance) and Global Trade Atlas, compiled by McDowell Group.

The Japanese pollock roe market – and by extension, the value of the pollock roe resource – is well defined 

with relatively steady demand. The value of roe is function of production volume in Russia and Alaska, as well 

as the strength or weakness of the yen. However, due to static (even slightly declining) demand, the 

product’s unique niche, and a lack of alternative markets and uses, the upside potential of the Japanese 

market appears limited unless the consumer base can be expanded. 

SOUTH KOREA

South Korea is the second largest consumer of pollock roe, but it also is an intermediary buyer. An average of 

14,222 mt of pollock roe imports were registered by the Korean Customs and Trade Development Institution 

between 2012 and 2014. However, Russia and Alaska sent 48,494 mt of pollock roe to South Korea per year 

during this period (Table 27). Trade statistic discrepancies are likely due to product which is sent to Korea for 

auction, storage, or secondary processing. Export figures represent all product shipped to Korea, while 

import statistics refer to product entering the Korean market. Korean import statistics suggest the Korean 

market consumes approximately a quarter of total pollock roe volume. Alaska supplies an estimated 21 

percent of the Korean domestic market. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 35

Table 27. South Korean Pollock Roe Trade (mt), 2012-2014

2012 2013 2014 3-yr. Average

Exports Reported by Major Producers

Russia 41,256 39,972 39,488 40,239

Alaska 7,560 7,414 9,792 8,255

Total 48,816 47,386 49,280 48,494

Actual Imports by Major Producer

Russia 9,918 11,838 12,008 11,255

Alaska 2,415 3,425 3,061 2,967

Total 12,333 15,263 15,069 14,222

Export/Import Difference 36,483 32,123 34,211 34,272

Source: Global Trade Atlas, compiled by McDowell Group. 

Korea is known for having less traditional tastes than Japan and has recently been in the spotlight as an 

emerging market for new roe products. Currently, lower grade pollock roe is marketed in Korea as a 

condiment mixed with other ingredients and spices.28 Though is also consumed in spicy and salted roe 

products like its Japanese neighbor. The Korean word for pollock roe is myeongtae. 

Wholesale Market Profile of Alaska H&G Pollock

Head and gut (H&G) products accounted for 12 percent of total pollock production volume in 2014, and 7

percent of the species’ total first wholesale value. Although dwarfed by fillet and surimi production, the H&G 

sector still averaged $94 million in first wholesale value over the last 5 years (2010-2014).29 H&G pollock is 

frozen and the vast majority is exported to China for secondary processing, mostly into fillets.

Product Description and Supply Chain

Alaska pollock is headed and gutted, both on-shore and at-sea, and then frozen. H&G production yields a 62 

percent recovery rate, on average, from round weight.30 Most of Alaska’s H&G pollock is “eastern cut” where 

the head is removed behind the collar. 

Virtually all H&G Alaska pollock is sent abroad for further processing (Figure 16). The primary destination is 

China, where it is a raw material used to produce frozen fillet blocks and salted fillets for markets in Europe, 

the United States, and Brazil. Secondary processors in Europe (fillet products) and Korea/Japan (likely surimi) 

also import significant volumes. Finally, there are anecdotal reports that some dressed and whole/round 

product is routed through China to markets in Africa. 

 28 (Hui, 2006) 29 AKFIN

30 (Crapo, 1993)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 36

Figure 16. Alaska Pollock Head & Gut Supply Chain

Production Analysis

In 2014, H&G pollock production increased to 67,200 mt and was worth $94 million in first wholesale terms

(Figure 17 and Table 28). H&G has increased its share of pollock production and the 2014 volume was 

significantly higher than its 10-year average of 40,700 mt - an increase of 65 percent (Figure 18). 

Figure 17. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Frozen H&G Alaska Pollock, 2005-2014

Table 28. First Wholesale Value, Frozen H&G Alaska Pollock, $Millions

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$29 $30 $45 $42 $86 $97 $109 $71 $100 $94

Source: AKFIN. 

Alaska Pollock 

Catch

At-Sea & 

On-Shore 

Primary 

Processing

Frozen H&G

Pollock

China Secondary 

Processors

European 

Secondary 

Processors

Fillet Markets Surimi End 

Markets

Other Secondary 

Processors

$1,200

$1,300

$1,400

$1,500

$1,600

$1,700

$1,800

$1,900

$2,000

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

70,000

80,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value/mt

Volume (in mt) Value/mt
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 37

With declining prices for pollock fillets (and a dissipating premium for once-frozen fillets), the share of H&G 

production has increased. Average prices for fillets and H&G are $3.00/kg and $1.40/kg, respectively. 

Additional processing costs are exported to international processors. At-sea and shoreside production 

volume of H&G fish are roughly equivalent but the price for at-sea product is $1.42/kg, compared to a 

shoreside price of $1.06/kg in 2014 (Figure 19).

31

Figure 18. Head and Gut Production Share, 2003-2014

 Source: AKFIN.

Figure 19. Alaska Pollock H&G Volume and Value, by Processing Sector, 2004-2014

Source: AKFIN.

Key Head and Gut Market Analysis

Headed and gutted Alaska pollock is primarily exported to China for reprocessing; the country bought 82 

percent of exported Alaska product between 2012 and 2014. Thailand, South Korea, and Ukraine also import 

substantial volumes of H&G Alaska pollock (Table 29). Virtually all of Alaska’s H&G pollock production is sold 

to export markets, primarily to countries that perform secondary processing to produce whitefish fillets or 

surimi. 

 31 AKFIN

$0

$10,000

$20,000

$30,000

$40,000

$50,000

$60,000

$70,000

$80,000

$90,000

 -

 10,000

 20,000

 30,000

 40,000

 50,000

 60,000

 70,000

 80,000

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value ($000s)

At-Sea Volume Shoreside Volume At-Sea Value Shoreside Value

0%

2%

4%

6%

8%

10%

12%

14%

16%

18%

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Percent of Total Production Volume

0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 38

Table 29. Imports of Alaska H&G Pollock by Country (mt), 2012-2014

Country 2012 2013 2014

China 34,966 47,767 50,476

Thailand 4,590 4,226 4,310

South Korea 1,456 1,285 3,498

Ukraine/Russia 22 2 5,571

Other 1,195 765 2,533

Total Exports 42,229 54,045 66,388

Total Production 48,153 62,258 67,167

Source: Global Trade Atlas and AKFIN.

Data in this section relies on import statistics from trading partners because tracking Alaska H&G pollock with 

U.S. export statistics presents some unique challenges. The first issue is that U.S. exports of the product tend 

to be about 15,000 mt higher than imports reported by global trading partners. This is likely due to a 

mischaracterization of fillet blocks as H&G product by some producers. In addition, the H.S. codes for pollock 

changed in 2012 and it is possible that buyers and sellers are using different codes in some cases.32 Generally, 

the data quality of U.S. export statistics is very good, but in this case data the total U.S. exports of H&G Alaska 

pollock is well above what is actually produced in Alaska – suggesting an issue with U.S. export statistics. 

Further, the U.S. imports very little H&G pollock from other countries, so the issue cannot be related to reexports of non-Alaska product. 

CHINA

The majority of Alaska H&G pollock is sent to China for secondary processing due to lower production costs 

and more favorable tariff treatment. In 2014, China imported 50,476 mt of Alaska H&G pollock (Table 30). 

This product, along with Russian H&G pollock is processed into fillets and other salted or breaded products 

for re-export to Europe, the United States, and Brazil. At this point, most product joins the global pollock fillet 

supply as a twice-frozen product. U.S. exports of H&G pollock to China have increased in recent years due to 

increasing H&G production. 

Table 30. China Imports of Frozen H&G Pollock by Country (mt), 2012-2014

Country 2012 2013 2014

Russia 574,013 563,792 514,497

U.S. 34,966 47,767 50,476

Japan 33,146 44,247 39,945

South Korea 7,189 8,349 1,890

Other 43 158 8,417

Total 649,357 664,447 615,268

Source: Global Trade Atlas.

Half of China’s frozen pollock fillets are re-exported to Europe. The United States is the next largest market, 

accounting for 15 percent of re-exports while Brazil ranks third at 14 percent (Table 31). China imports frozen 

pollock from the United States, Russia, and South Korea. In addition, China exported 62,190 mt of salted, 

smoked, or dried fish in 2013 worth $329 million. H.S. codes are generally less specific about the species of 

these products; however, the majority is likely cod and pollock. Brazil, the United States, and Portugal are the 

largest importers of Chinese salted, smoked, or dried fish products. 

 32 The Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding System, also known as the Harmonized System (HS), is an internationally standardized 

system of names and numbers (product codes) used to classify internationally traded products.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 39

Table 31. Chinese Re-exports of Frozen Alaska Pollock Fillets, by Market, 2014

Markets Volume

(mt)

Value

($millions)

Pct. of Total China 

Pollock Fillet ReExports

Germany 85,578 $256.1 29%

United States 42,686 121.5 15%

Brazil 39,896 92.8 14%

Europe (not including Germany) 58,767 172.7 20%

South Korea 13,973 38.6 5%

Russia 11,646 23.3 4%

Japan 5,997 22.3 2%

Total Re-Exports 291,686 $813.2 -

Notes: Totals may not sum due to rounding. Does not include salted, smoked, dried, or other value-added products. 

Source: Global Trade Atlas.

OTHER MARKETS

One of the fastest-growing regions that pollock producers have their eye on is Africa, which has been an 

emerging market for whole round fish. With a population of 1.1 billion and a GDP growth rate of 5.2 percent 

in 2014, Africa is a growing market for seafood.33 Russian fishing companies are producing more whole round 

pollock destined for Nigeria, one of the larger African economies.34

Competing Supply

Overall, H&G pollock is an intermediate product and most of it eventually joins the global supply of frozen 

pollock fillet blocks. H&G supply is a function of total harvest volume, surimi production, fillet processing 

costs, shipping costs, and the difference in prices for once-frozen versus twice-frozen fillet products. 

The largest pollock harvests come from Alaska and Russia, with combined TACs over 3 million metric tons. 

The vast majority of Russian pollock is exported or sold to domestic buyers as an H&G product, while most 

Alaska pollock is filleted directly or used in surimi production. Alaska H&G pollock supply is somewhat 

dictated by relative value of once-frozen pollock fillets over twice-frozen pollock and other whitefish fillets, as 

well as processing production costs in Alaska relative to other areas. As shown in Table 31, Chinese imports of 

frozen Alaska H&G pollock have substantially increased in recent years.

Global Pollock Production and Competing Supply

Alaska pollock is fished almost entirely by Alaska and Russia, due to its distribution in the North Pacific Ocean. 

Japan, South Korea, and North Korea also harvest pollock, though in smaller volumes than Alaska or Russia. 

Pollock production has increased in recent years, from 2.83 million mt in 2010 to an estimated 3.39 million 

mt in 2014. Alaska harvested 1.44 million mt in 2014 and accounted for 43 percent of global supply. Despite 

increasing harvest volumes in recent years and providing the fish’s namesake, Alaska is currently the world’s 

second-largest pollock producer behind Russia (Table 32).

 33 World Bank (GDP growth rate)

34 (Seaman, 2015)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 40

Table 32. Global Pollock Harvest by Major Producer (mt), 2010-2014

Producer 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Pct. Change 

over 

2010-2013 

Average

Russia 1,584,527 1,579,792 1,632,631 1,558,721 1,625,000 2%

U.S. (Alaska) 888,410 1,281,803 1,310,231 1,370,115 1,442,839 19%

Japan 251,166 238,920 229,823 228,200 228,200 -4%

South Korea 46,795 48,793 39,026 24,342 24,300 -39%

Others 62,167 64,593 67,132 66,243 66,200 2%

Total 2,833,065 3,213,901 3,278,843 3,247,621 3,386,539 8%

Pct. from Alaska 31% 40% 40% 42% 43% -

Source: FAO, Groundfish Forum, NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports, ADF&G Groundfish Reports, and McDowell Group estimates. 

Pollock has been harvested for many decades, but the United States did not play a significant role in the 

fishery until the passage of the Magnuson-Stevens Fishery and Conservation Act (MSA) in 1976. The 

legislation laid the groundwork for consolidating control over territorial waters, and along with later 

amendments and other international agreements, provided unfettered access for U.S. fishing companies to 

Alaska pollock fisheries within 200 nautical miles of U.S. soil. 

U.S. harvests began ramping up in the mid-1980s, displacing Japanese vessels in newly designated Alaska

waters (Figure 20). U.S. pollock harvests have been relatively consistent since 1989, producing an average of 

1.30 million mt per year. Overall, pollock harvests have declined since the 1970s and 1980s due to tighter 

control over fishery access and the application of responsible fishery management practices. 

Figure 20. Global Harvest Volume of Alaska Pollock (mt), 1977-2014

Source: FAO (1977-2013, non-Alaska), NMFS (1977-2014), and McDowell Group estimates (2014, non-Alaska).

0

1,000,000

2,000,000

3,000,000

4,000,000

5,000,000

6,000,000

7,000,000

19771978197919801981198219831984198519861987198819891990199119921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Volumet (mt)

Alaska Russia Japan South Korea Other
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 41

COMPETING SPECIES

Several other species impact the market for pollock fillets and surimi, including (in order of importance for 

each category): 

Fillets

• Atlantic and Pacific cod 

• Haddock

• Saithe

• Hake

• Tilapia

• Pangasius

Surimi

• Tropical species (including threadfin bream, lizardfish, and big eye) 

• Hake

Pollock supply likely increased in 2015, but supplies of most other competing wild whitefish species are 

expected to decline (Table 33). Cod and haddock production in Europe likely declined in 2015, which would 

have been supportive for the pollock fillet market but the weak euro and larger pollock TACs more than 

offset the effects of less competing whitefish species. 

Table 33. Competing Whitefish Supply Trends

Species 2013 Harvest 

(thousands mt)

2014-2015 Expected 

Trend

Cod 1,821 Down 5%

Haddock 309 Down 3%

Hakes1 1,019 Down 6%

Saithe 309 Flat

Russian Pollock 1,559 Up 5%

Alaska Pollock 1,370 Up 5%

1 Includes major hake fisheries only. 

Source: FAO (2013) and Groundfish Forum (2014-2015 Expected Trends).
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 42

Wholesale Market Profile for Pacific Cod

Pacific cod35 (Gadus macrocephalus), also known as Alaska cod, is a whitefish found in the coastal Pacific 

Ocean from Alaska to California with the largest concentration found in the Gulf of Alaska and the Bering Sea. 

The largest of the Alaska groundfish species, Pacific cod can reach a length of 6 feet. In 2014, Alaska Pacific 

cod accounted for 18 percent of total global cod harvest, with 154,584 metric tons in 2014. The first 

wholesale production was worth $472 million, or 19 percent of total Alaska groundfish value in 2014. Highly 

valued for their mild, white flesh, Pacific cod are primarily processed into fillet and H&G products. 

Table 34. Summary Profile of Pacific Cod Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 

Value and Volume Key Products H&G Fillet Other

First Wholesale Production (mt) 154,584 Pct. of Value 70% 21% 9%

Pct. of Global Cod Harvest (2013) 18% Key Markets China Europe U.S. Other

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $472 Pct. of Final Sales 37% 14% 31% 18%

Pct. of Alaska Groundfish Value 19% YOY Change 14% -6% 31% -11%

Production Volume Exported 67% Competing Species: Russian Pacific cod and Atlantic cod

Fishery Summary

A transoceanic species with distribution from southern 

California to the Bering Strait, Pacific cod are found at depths 

up to 500m and are heavily distributed in Alaska waters. Due to 

their habitat distribution, Pacific cod are harvested 

predominantly with longlines and bottom trawl gear. Smaller 

amounts of Pacific cod are harvested by pot gear and jigs. 

Japanese and other foreign fishermen fished for cod in Alaska 

waters from the 1960s to 1977 when the 200-mile Exclusive 

Economic Zone (EEZ) was established by the Magnuson-Stevens 

Act, eliminating foreign fishing vessels in U.S. waters. 

Commercial fishing efforts remained a joint venture with 

Japanese vessels until the late 1980s when the fishing fleet 

became entirely U.S. based.

Fishing efforts between 1977 and 1987 were minimal, with an 

average of 23,000 mt landed. In comparison, landings averaged 

262,000 mt annually over the past 10 years (Figure 21). The 

annual Total Allowable Catch (TAC) is determined by the 

National Marine Fisheries Services (NMFS) and quotas are set 

by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council. Community 

Development Quotas (CDQs) are allocated to eligible rural 

communities and account for approximately 10 percent of the BSAI TAC each year. There are three distinct 

fisheries for cod: federal, state-managed parallel season, and state waters fisheries. Over the past 5 years, 

more than 90 percent of total harvest volume came from federally managed fisheries (Table 35). 

 35 All references to cod or Alaska cod equate to Pacific Cod.

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 43

Figure 21. Pacific Cod Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt), 1977-2014

Source: NMFS OST (1977-2004) and NMFS Economic SAFE 2014 (2005-2014).

Table 35. Pacific Cod Harvest Volume for Federal and State Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports, ADF&G Groundfish Reports, and AKFIN.

In 2014, the longline fishery for cod accounted for 48 percent of the federal harvests statewide (Figure 22). 

Across Alaska, 35 percent of Pacific cod caught in federal fisheries was caught using trawl gear, however, this 

proportion varies by region. In the Gulf of Alaska, trawl gear accounted for 42 percent of total cod harvests. 

In the Bering Sea Aleutian Islands (BSAI) region, trawl gear accounted for 33 percent of cod harvests. Most of 

the catcher processor fleet produces frozen headed and gutted (H&G) product. Motherships tend to produce 

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Federal

West GOA 21,005 22,317 18,352 19,247 21,686

Central GOA 36,848 39,754 37,775 32,025 40,219

East GOA 944 711 340 520 318

Total GOA 58,797 62,782 56,467 51,792 62,223

Catcher Processor 

(Amendment 80) 24,028 6,422 27,991 32,262 27,716

Catcher Processor (AFA) 4,041 24,743 6,332 6,678 4,427

Catcher Processor (Trawl) 28,177 39,816 46,419 43,698 42,085

Fixed Gear 93,645 125,853 140,402 136,681 137,302

Other (includes CDQ) 18,148 23,008 24,524 26,163 25,375

Total BSAI 168,039 219,842 245,668 245,482 236,905

State

Southeast/Yakutat 421 273 207 363 344

PWS 373 878 815 939 982

Cook Inlet 1,601 2,341 2,811 1,884 1,846

BSAI/AK Pen./Kodiak 27,101 28,239 30,071 18,069 31,551

Total State 29,497 31,731 33,904 21,254 34,723

Total Harvest 256,333 314,355 336,039 318,528 333,851

Pct. Federal 88% 90% 90% 93% 90%

0

50,000

100,000

150,000

200,000

250,000

300,000

350,000

19771978197919801981198219831984198519861987198819891990199119921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Harvest Volume (mt)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 44

specialty products depending on their on-board technology, such as fish meal, surimi, and fillets. Shoreside 

processors produce fillets as well as frozen H&G.

Figure 22. Share of Alaska Pacific Cod Harvest by Gear Type, 2014

Source: NMFS Economic SAFE 2014.

Production Summary

In 2014, Pacific cod wholesale production was the second largest in terms of volume, following pollock, with 

production volume of 154,584 mt valued at $471.9 million. Cod production has steadily increased in the last 

10 years, with a 34 percent increase in volume in the last 5 years (Figure 23 and Table 36). 

Figure 23. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Pacific Cod, 2005-2014

Table 36. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Pacific Cod, $Millions

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$426 $365 $353 $526 $250 $351 $497 $494 $398 $472

Source: AKFIN.

Trawl

35%

Longline

48%

Pot/Jig

17%

$2,600

$2,800

$3,000

$3,200

$3,400

$3,600

$3,800

$4,000

$4,200

$4,400

0

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

140,000

160,000

180,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value/mt

Volume (in mt) Value/mt

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 45

H&G product accounted for 74 percent of production volume (114,510 mt) in 2014, and 67 percent of first 

wholesale value ($317 million). Fillets accounted for 12 percent by wholesale volume (18,270 mt) and 25 

percent of first wholesale value ($117 million). Other products, including roe and fish meal, made up 14 

percent of wholesale volume with 20,014 mt valued at $37 million (Figure 24).

Figure 24. Volume and Value of Pacific Cod Wholesale Production in Alaska, by Product Type, 2014

The following sections detail production for the primary product forms of cod, provides an overview of the 

supply chain, and analyzes key markets.

Production Volume and Value of H&G and Fillets

In 2014, Alaska harvest of Pacific cod was almost entirely processed as H&G and fillets—74 percent and 26 

percent, respectively. The H&G sector averaged $294.7 million in first wholesale value over the last 5 years 

(2010-2014).36 Figure 25 shows overall Alaska production of H&G, which has been increasing. Most H&G cod 

is frozen and exported to China for secondary processing, mainly into fillets. Fillets are produced almost 

entirely at shoreside facilities and are frozen in shatterpack form, blocks, individually quick frozen (IQF), and 

fresh. The remainder of cod is salted, minced, or dried.

 36 ADF&G (COAR).

Head and 

Gut

74%

Fillets

12%

Other 

Products

11%

Roe 

3%

Volume

154,584 mt

Head and 

Gut

67%

Fillets

25%

Other 

Products

5%

Roe 

3%

Value

$471.9 million

Source: AKFIN.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 46

Figure 25. Pacific Cod H&G Production in Alaska, by Volume and Value, 1992-2014

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Table 37. Alaska Pacific Cod Production Volume and First Wholesale Value, by Region, 2014

Production Region

Production 

Volume 

(mt)

Pct.

of Total

First 

Wholesale 

Value 

($thousands)

Avg. Price/kg Pct.

of Total

Bering Sea and Aleutians 123,512 80% $351,287 $2.84 75%

Catcher/processors & Motherships 85,420 55% $241,684 $2.83 52%

Shoreside processors 38,092 25% $109,603 $2.88 23%

Gulf of Alaska 31,072 20% $117,490 $3.78 25%

Catcher/processors 3,223 2% $8,610 $2.67 2%

Shoreside processors 27,849 18% $108,880 $3.91 23%

Grand Total 154,584 $468,776

Note: Due to differences with when data was accessed, total value figures do not precisely match other totals quoted in this report. 

Source: AKFIN.

The BSAI region accounted for 75 percent of first wholesale 

production in 2014, with the Gulf of Alaska accounting for 

the remaining 25 percent (Table 37). The largest sector is the 

at-sea H&G production, which accounts for 54 percent of 

wholesale production volume. 

There are a variety of Alaska fishing vessels that target cod,

including freezer longliners, catcher-vessel longliners, 

trawlers, and pot vessels. Fixed gear vessels tend to see 

higher prices for H&G than prices received by trawl vessels. 

Most of the cod processed at-sea is frozen H&G. Floating 

catcher processors and mothership processors processed 66 

percent of total wholesale production volume in 2014. 

Shoreside processing facilities turn out almost all of the 

sector’s fillet production, mostly in shatterpack form. Some 

 $-

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19921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Value ($millions)

Volume (mt)

Volume (in mt) Value (in $Millions)

Photo Courtesy of Star Boats.

0 $0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 47

of the largest shoreside locations for cod processing include Kodiak, Dutch Harbor, and Akutan, which 

accounted for 27 percent of total production volume in 2014. 

Product Description and Supply Chain of H&G and Fillets

Most Pacific cod caught in Alaska is processed into frozen H&G product before being exported. Secondary 

processing occurs mainly in China, and to a lesser extent Japan, Europe, and the United States (Figure 26).

Final products are primarily fillets, frozen portions, and value-added products sold in restaurants, grocery 

stores, and in food service with the largest markets being Europe and the United States (Table 38).

Figure 26. Alaska Pacific Cod Supply Chain (Meat Products Only)

Table 38. Common Pacific Cod Products, Alaska Production, and Recovery Rates, 2014

2014 Production 

Volume (mt)

2014 Production 

Value 

($thousands)

Recovery Rate 

Range Average Price/kg

H&G Eastern 87,815 $245,878 56-75% $2.80

H&G Western 25,562 57,705 56-75% 2.26

Fillets, skinless/boneless 17,406 112,363 18-39% 6.46

Roe 5,251 11,682 1-7% 2.22

Other 18,551 41,148 - 2.22

Total Wholesale Production 154,584 $468,776

Total Retained Fed. Harvest 299,128

Notes: Volume in product-weight terms. Due to differences with when data was accessed, value figures do not precisely match other 

totals quoted in this report. 

Source: NMFS Catch and Production Reports and Alaska Sea Grant (Crapo, Paust, & Babbit, 1993).

Motherships

(Floating Processors)

Alaska

Catcher Vessels

Alaska

Catcher Processors

Shoreside

Processors

Frozen Head and Gut

(primary processing)

Frozen 

Fillets

China, Japan, Europe

(Secondary Processors)

U.S. Secondary

Processors

Salted Twice-Frozen 

Fillet Blocks

Portions, Breaded, 

Other Value-Added

Refresh Markets 

& Distributors

Restaurants & 

Grocery Stores

Foreign Consumers 

Latin America & Europe

Food Service & 

Quick Serve Restaurants
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 48

Head and Gut

While H&G cod are the majority of the first wholesale production (74 percent of total production in 2014 

with 114,510 mt valued at $317 million wholesale value), it has the most complex supply chain (Figure 27). 

Most H&G is further processed in foreign markets, but some also remains in the United States to be 

processed domestically (Figure 26).

Frozen H&G product provides a raw material to secondary processors which is not contaminated by viscera 

and blood. Cod are headed and gutted, either onshore or at-sea, and immediately frozen. Frozen H&G 

product must be thawed, cut, and then re-frozen, which causes fillets to lose some of their quality. 

Figure 27. Alaska Pacific Cod H&G Wholesale Production and Exports, 2007-2014 

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database. 

While most frozen H&G product is exported, a portion is 

distributed to domestic secondary processing facilities

(Figure 28). The largest reprocessing market is China, 

followed by Japan, United States, and Europe. This secondary 

processing results in primarily frozen fillets and loins, but also 

includes breaded fish sticks, fillets, and other value added 

products. Foreign buyers also purchase H&G cod as a raw 

material for salt cod products, which are popular in Europe 

and Latin America. 

A direct channel for H&G products in the United States are 

refresh markets, where it is thawed and filleted into 

portioned products. Refresh markets have increased in 

popularity in the United States within the last 10 years. Other 

U.S. processors use H&G cod to produce breaded or coated 

sticks and portions for sale in grocery stores and food service 

outlets. Photo Courtesy of ASMI.

 $-

 $50,000

 $100,000

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 -

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2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value ($000s)

Wholesale (in mt) Exports (in mt) Export Value (in $000s)

0 $0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 49

Figure 28. H&G as Percent of Total Alaska Pacific Cod Exports, 2007-2014

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database.

Fillets

Cod fisheries in Alaska produced 18,268 mt of fillets in 

2014, or about 80 million 8 oz portions. Most Alaska cod 

fillets are packaged as shatterpacks, consisting of frozen 

fillet blocks, while individual fillets are separated by 

plastic sheets, making them easier to separate without 

need to be thawed.

• IQF (individual quick frozen) fillets and loins are 

portions that are quickly frozen to preserve 

freshness.

• Shatterpack fillets are traditionally packed into 45 

pound containers and sold to the grocery refresh 

market. 

• Block fillet products are reprocessed into valueadded breaded frozen portions. 

In most end markets, cod is not differentiated between 

Pacific cod or Atlantic cod. China imports cod from the 

United States where it is further processed and reexported, which is discussed further in the “Key Markets” 

section. Chinese re-processors produce twice-frozen fillet 

blocks and breaded frozen portions. This supply of twice frozen blocks competes directly with once frozen 

cod products produced in Alaska, even though the quality is reported to be lower.37 The competition for cod 

fillets has reduced the value for cod exports from Alaska, as shown in Figure 29. Most fillets are sold into the 

domestic market.

In Alaska, cod fillets are reprocessed for both food service and retail as a whitefish product which is easy to 

thaw and cook from a retail outlet or as a mild seafood dish served at a variety of restaurants including fine 

dining to quick service. 

 37 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative. 

Pacific cod sold in a refresh market.

Photo Courtesy of Garrett Evridge.

85%

80% 83%

95% 95% 92% 98% 97%

0%

20%

40%

60%

80%

100%

120%

 -

 20,000

 40,000

 60,000

 80,000

 100,000

 120,000

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

H&G as Pct. of Total Cod Exports

Volume (mt)

Exports (in mt) H&G as Pct. of Exports

0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 50

Figure 29. First Wholesale and Export Values for Alaska Pacific Cod Fillets, in $Thousands, 2010-2014

Source: ADF&G (COAR) Reports and ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database. 

Key Markets for Pacific Cod

In 2014, Alaska Pacific cod H&G exports totaled 100,542 mt, representing 97 percent of total cod exports

(Figure 30 and Table 39).

38 Frozen H&G exports have been increasing. China is the largest importer of H&G 

Pacific cod, but most product is reprocessed for export. In 2014, China imported 55,600 mt of cod from the 

United States. The next largest export markets are Japan, Europe, and Canada. 

Figure 30. Total Alaska Pacific Cod Exports, by Volume and Value, 2007-2014

Source: ASMI Export Database.

Pacific cod fillets are primarily consumed in the United States, Canada, and European markets (Table 40). The 

domestic market, according to McDowell Group estimates, consumed 57 percent of fillets produced in 

Alaska— or an average of 9,613 mt from 2010-2014. In 2014, Alaska Pacific cod fillets had a first wholesale 

value of $120.8 million and an export value of $11.4 million, suggesting most product is sold into the 

domestic market. In the last 5 years, Canada and Europe are the largest foreign markets for once frozen cod 

fillets, importing 41 percent of exported Alaska cod fillets over the last 5 years (2010-2014).

 38 ASMI Export Database.

 $-

 $50,000

 $100,000

 $150,000

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 $250,000

 $300,000

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 $400,000

 -

 20,000

 40,000

 60,000

 80,000

 100,000

 120,000

 140,000

 160,000

 180,000

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value ($000s)

Wholesale (in mt) Exports (in mt) Export Value (in $000s)

0

 $-

 $20,000

 $40,000

 $60,000

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 $100,000

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2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($000s)

Wholesale Value ($000s) Export Value ($000s)

$0

$0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 51

Table 39. Sales of H&G Alaska Pacific Cod to Key Markets (mt), 2010-2014

Market 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. of Total 

(5-yr. Avg.)

China* 23,547 40,854 45,311 47,116 55,600 40%

Japan* 14,532 18,224 17,087 12,896 17,338 15%

Europe1 17,580 14,884 14,422 8,670 5,968 12%

South Korea* 6,203 5,784 5,472 7,684 5,372 6%

Canada 2,705 2,328 2,482 2,500 2,011 2%

Other 13,038 16,525 12,944 15,108 14,253 14%

Total Exports 77,605 98,599 97,718 93,974 100,542 89%

U.S. (Estimated)2 2,711 7,471 21,888 10,409 17,895 11%

Alaska Production 80,316 106,070 119,606 104,383 118,437

* Denotes countries which primarily re-process and/or re-export product to other markets. 1 Does not include Russia, Ukraine, or other minor European markets.

2 Estimated based on annual production less calendar year exports.

Note: Data pertains to primary exports only, does not portray product which may be re-exported to other markets. 

Source: AKFIN, NMFS Trade Data, ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database, and McDowell Group estimates. 

Table 40. Sales of Alaska Pacific Cod Fillets to Key Markets (mt), 2010-2014

Market 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. of Total 

(5-yr. Avg.)

China* 1,539 1,502 4,362 1,104 802 11%

Canada 798 1,326 982 1,240 740 6%

Europe 3,225 1,613 3,831 724 373 12%

Other 3,284 6,049 1,072 470 675 14%

Total Exports 8,846 10,490 10,247 3,539 2,590 43%

U.S. (Estimated)2 5,958 5,304 5,593 14,957 16,252 57%

Alaska Production 14,805 15,795 15,841 18,496 18,842

* Denotes countries which primarily re-process and/or re-export product to other markets. 2 Estimated based on annual production less calendar year exports.

Note: Data pertains to primary exports only, does not portray product which may be re-exported to other markets. 

Source: AKFIN, NMFS Trade Data, ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database, and McDowell Group estimates. 

UNITED STATES

Not differentiating between Pacific and Atlantic cod, the United 

States imported 66,421 mt of cod in 2014, valued at $392.5 million

(Figure 31 and Table 41). In 2014, fillets accounted for 90 percent 

of cod imports into the United States, with the remainder divided 

between H&G and salted. The United States imported $304.1 

million of cod fillets in 2014, a 19 percent increase over 2013

(Table 42). According to McDowell Group estimates, the U.S. 

market bought an estimated 57 percent of Alaska’s cod fillet 

production from 2010-2014. Seventy-four percent of U.S. cod fillet 

import volume came from China in 2014. Approximately 15 

percent of Alaska H&G production went to the domestic market to 

be reprocessed. 

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 52

Table 41. Total Cod Imports into U.S. Market, Volume and Value, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. Change 

YOY

Volume (mt) 48,566 52,269 49,755 59,850 66,421 10%

Value ($millions) $263.3 $327.1 $327.6 $341.5 $392.5 13%

Source: NMFS trade data. 

Cod is a popular menu item in the U.S. market. IQF fillets and shatterpack fillets of Pacific cod are used by fine 

restaurants, food service, fast food restaurants, and retail fish markets. Fillet blocks are utilized when the 

customer needs uniformity, such as in fish sandwiches or in “fish and chips” restaurants. Some grocery 

retailers utilize fillet block forms in the frozen aisle as value-added products, as well as at the retail fish 

counter, where fillets are thawed and displayed in a refreshed format.

Figure 31. U.S. Imports of Cod Fillets from Major Trading Partners (mt), 2012-2014

Source: Global Trade Atlas.

Table 42. Total Imports and Price/kg for Cod Fillets into the U.S. Market, 2012-2014

2012 2013 2014

Trading 

Partner

Value 

($thousands)

Price/kg Value 

($thousands)

Price/kg Value 

($thousands)

Price/kg

China $174,951 $6.06 $165,845 $4.99 $226,315 $5.25

Russia 25,333 7.19 35,239 6.77 29,780 6.79

Iceland 31,230 7.50 29,135 5.90 26,715 7.15

Thailand 7,485 7.11 9,632 6.30 8,065 6.56

Norway 3,020 6.82 5,425 5.97 6,431 5.77

Other 11,690 6.79 10,815 5.51 6,865 6.84

Total $253,710 $6.38 $256,092 $5.36 $304,171 $5.58

Source: Global Trade Atlas.

2012 2013 2014

Other 3,217 4,401 3,348

Iceland 4,166 4,937 3,735

Russia 3,522 5,202 4,383

China 28,876 33,217 43,080

 -

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 20,000

 30,000

 40,000

 50,000

 60,000

Volume (mt)

0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 53

CHINA

China serves as a secondary processor for fillets by augmenting fillets with value-added product forms and reexporting to markets such as Europe and the United States. Over the last 5 years, China has imported 40 

percent of Alaska’s cod, and trade with China increased 57 percent. China imports H&G cod (both Pacific and 

Atlantic) as raw material for reprocessing. The primary products from China are frozen fillet blocks, frozen 

portions, and value-added products such as battered or breaded portions. Cod fillet blocks compete with 

Alaska produced cod fillet blocks in the United States and with European cod fillet blocks in the EU. There are 

other overseas markets that are also destinations for Chinese reprocessed cod products such as Brazil, which 

increased imports of cod fillets from China by 141 percent from 2013 to 2014 (Table 43).

39

Table 43. Primary Export Markets for Chinese Twice-Frozen Cod Fillets (mt), 2012-2014

2012 2013 2014 Pct. of 

Total Exports

European Market 57,588 68,399 79,976 58%

U.S. 33,093 38,899 44,756 32%

Canada 3,237 4,568 4,918 4%

Brazil 1,386 1,649 3,987 3%

Other 3,904 4,777 4,982 4%

Total 99,208 118,292 138,619 100%

Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding.

Source: Global Trade Atlas.

JAPAN AND SOUTH KOREA 

Japan is a key market for Alaska H&G cod. In 2014, 17,338 mt of Alaska Pacific cod products was exported to 

Japan and 5,372 mt was exported to South Korea. Japanese consumers typically consume cod in the wintertime, 

often used in soups, and traditionally prefer it in a “kirimi” cut. South Korean consumers buy H&G and also whole 

fish, consuming the entire fish. Cod is a mainstay on Korean restaurant menus and a popular item cooked for 

home consumption. However, a significant volume of H&G cod product shipped to South Korea is re-exported for 

destinations such as the United States or Europe.

Table 44. Alaska Pacific Cod Export Volume to Major Asian Markets (mt), 2010-2014

Export Market 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Japan 17,068 22,158 17,616 13,176 17,572

Fillet 1,836 3,911 464 67 46

H&G 14,532 18,224 17,087 12,896 17,338

Other 700 23 65 213 187

South Korea 7,244 7,168 6,533 7,988 5,535

Fillet 956 1,204 84 29 126

H&G 6,203 5,784 5,472 7,684 5,372

Other 86 179 977 275 36

Grand Total 24,313 29,326 24,149 21,164 23,106

Pct. of Total Cod Exports 30% 28% 23% 22% 22%

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database.

 39 Global Trade Atlas.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 54

EUROPE

Over the last 5 years (2010-2014), approximately 12 

percent of Pacific cod exports from Alaska have 

been directly exported to the European market. 

Europe is a more important end-market than 

suggested by this modest percentage, as Alaska 

Pacific cod is often routed through China or South 

Korea before being sold into Europe (Table 45). The 

EU protects its domestic cod producers by 

maintaining higher duties on imported cod fillets, 

whereas frozen H&G cod can generally be imported 

into the EU with no tariff. Therefore, Alaska exports 

relatively little fillet production to the EU because of 

the 7.5 percent tariff. According to domestic 

seafood industry contacts, frozen cod fillets cut from 

Pacific cod in China do not incur the same 7.5 percent EU tariff as similar product exported from the United 

States. This modification in the supply chain may explain the increase in Alaska’s H&G production and the 

increase in EU cod fillet imports from China in recent years.

40

Table 45. European Imports of Cod Fillets from Major Producers (mt), 2012-2014

Exporter 2012 2013 2014 Pct. of Total 

(3-yr. Avg.)

China* 45,414 55,565 68,533 69%

U.S. (Alaska) 3,445 690 369 2%

Russia 10,871 25,884 36,572 30%

Total 59,730 82,139 105,474 -

*Denotes re-exporter.

Note: Totals may not sum due to rounding.

Source: Global Trade Atlas and ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database. 

When Atlantic cod stocks began to decline, Pacific cod was used as a substitute. In the last few years, the 

Atlantic cod supply has increased, leading to more global cod supply, which has reduced cod prices in Europe.

In the last 5 years (2010-2014), 27 percent of cod fillets were exported to Europe. Frozen seafood in Europe 

tends to be a more popular protein than in the United States.41 In food service, the common packaging are 10 

kg bags of frozen 500 g (about 1.1 lb) portions. 

Northern Europe and Southern Europe are two distinct end markets for cod products. In the north, the 

primary end markets are Germany, the UK, and Norway. In Southern Europe, Spain and Portugal consume 

traditional dishes that incorporate salted cod. 

Global Production and Competing Supply

There are two main species of cod, Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) and Atlantic cod (gadus morhua). Both 

are found in the northern hemispheres of the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. As a gadid whitefish, they are 

considered almost identical substitutes for each other. In 2014 it is estimated that 482,000 mt of Pacific cod 

and 1,334,000 mt of Atlantic cod were harvested globally (Table 46). Some of the largest Atlantic cod stocks 

are in the Barents Sea.

 40 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative. 41 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.

Salt cod production in Europe.

Wikipedia, license CC-BY-SA 3.0.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 55

The U.S. fishery for Atlantic cod is very small and Pacific cod from the North Pacific (primarily Alaska waters) 

accounts for almost all U.S cod harvest. Alaska accounted for 68 percent of global Pacific cod harvests over 

the last 3 years (2012-2014), with an average of 327,000 metric tons annually. It contributed 19 percent to 

the global cod harvest over the same 3 year period.

Table 46. Major Cod Producing Nations (Thousands mt), 2012-2014

2012 2013 2014

Atlantic Cod Supply 1,107 1,343 1,334

Norway 358 472 465

Russia 334 435 432

Iceland 205 236 240

EU 149 132 130

Other 61 68 67

Pacific Cod Supply 470 470 482

U.S. 331 320 330

Russia 77 78 80

Japan 50 60 60

Korea 12 12 12

Total Cod Supply 1,577 1,813 1,816

Source: Groundfish Forum.

In addition to Alaska, Russia and Japan are the next largest producers of Pacific cod products (Figure 32). 

Japan was the first nation to commercially fish for Pacific cod in Alaska waters and it still harvests Pacific cod, 

albeit in much smaller quantities than it did decades ago. The two largest suppliers of Pacific cod are the 

United States and Russia. There has been downward pressure on market prices for cod due to increased 

quotas in both the United States and Russia. More U.S. Pacific cod is processed in China as prices decrease, 

due to lower processing costs abroad. 

Figure 32. Global Supply of Pacific Cod (mt) 1950-2013

Source: FAO.

 -

 50,000

 100,000

 150,000

 200,000

 250,000

 300,000

 350,000

 400,000

 450,000

 500,000

19501952195419561958196019621964196619681970197219741976197819801982198419861988199019921994199619982000200220042006200820102012

Volume (mt)

U.S. Russia Japan Other

0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 56

Atlantic Cod

Fishing for Atlantic cod peaked in the mid-1970s, with global harvests near 3 million mt, nearly double the 

2014 level (Figure 33). Stocks were overfished along the Atlantic coasts and served as case studies for 

collapsed fisheries. In recent years, the supply of Atlantic cod has dwindled with a reduction in harvests due 

to stocks being rebuilt to sustainable levels, while the demand in the EU for cod has increased. An easy 

substitute, Pacific cod began to be exported to fulfill demand for Atlantic cod. Pollock, the largest singlespecies fishery in the world, has also been a substitute for Atlantic cod. As shown in Figure 34, shatterpack 

cod from Alaska follows a similar price trend of Atlantic cod.

Figure 33. Global Supply of Pacific and Atlantic Cod (mt) 1950-2013

Source: FAO.

Figure 34. Comparison of Shatterpack Cod Value between Alaska and Competitors, 2005-2014

Source: UBComtell.

 $2.00

 $2.50

 $3.00

 $3.50

 $4.00

 $4.50

 $5.00

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Price per Pound ($)

Alaska Shatterpack Cod, 8-16 oz Norway/Russia Shatterpack Cod, 8-16 oz

0

500,000

1,000,000

1,500,000

2,000,000

2,500,000

3,000,000

19501952195419561958196019621964196619681970197219741976197819801982198419861988199019921994199619982000200220042006200820102012

Volume (mt)

Atlantic Cod (in mt) Pacific Cod (in mt)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 57

Wholesale Market Profile for Yellowfin Sole

Yellowfin sole (Limanda aspera) is one of the most abundant flatfish in the eastern Bering Sea. Alaska is 

responsible for the majority of the global catch. Overall, the species represented 47 percent of the first 

wholesale value in 2014 of all Alaska flatfish, which also includes rock sole, Arrowtooth flounder, flathead 

sole, turbot, and rex sole. Most of Alaska’s yellowfin sole production is exported to China. This market profile 

summarizes production and markets for yellowfin sole fisheries in Alaska. 

Table 47. Summary Profile of Yellowfin Sole Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 

Value and Volume Key Products H&G Whole Round Other

First Wholesale Production (mt) 93,794 Pct. of Value 69% 12% 19%

Pct. of Global Flatfish Harvest (2013) 14% Key Markets China South Korea Other

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $97.8 Pct. of 1st Sales 86% 13% 1%

Pct. of Alaska Groundfish Value 4.0% YOY Change -1% 6% 14%

Pct. of Flatfish Volume 54% Competing Species: Other flatfish, tilapia, whitefish

Fishery Summary

Yellowfin sole is a demersal species typically targeted 

by vessels using trawl gear with most taken between 

March through May and August through October.42

The largest concentration of yellowfin sole is in the 

Eastern Bering Sea. The Gulf of Alaska (GOA) also 

yields a sizeable flatfish harvest but the species is 

managed as part of a broader shallow-water flatfish 

complex, also including rock sole, Alaska plaice, and 

other small shallow-water flatfish. Flatfish species are 

primarily targeted by the Amendment 80 catcher 

processer trawl fleet, but also caught by the 

American Fisheries Act (AFA) trawl catcher processors, AFA trawl catcher vessels, and non-AFA trawl vessels 

operating in Alaska. Yellowfin sole are highly migratory, spending the winter near shelf margins and migrating 

to inner shelf areas in the spring to spawn and feed. 

Sole were harvested by foreign fleets until the Magnuson-Stevens Act in 1977. U.S. joint venture fisheries 

began in 1980 and now dominate global landings of yellowfin sole. Alaska fishing efforts have increased since 

the 1990s and early 2000s. Since 2008, the targeted fishery has operated as a catch share fishery, with 

participants operating as cooperatives. The new cooperative structure allows companies to operate more 

efficiently, maximize product retention, and minimize bycatch. Yellowfin sole are caught primarily by trawl 

catcher-processors and almost all are processed at-sea in the Bering Sea Aleutian Islands (BSAI) region. 

 42 Gibson, Nash, Geffen, and Van der Veer (2014)

Photo from NMFS (AFSC).
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 58

Figure 35. Yellowfin Sole Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt) 1983-2014

Source: NMFS (OST). 

In 2014, the BSAI total allowable catch (TAC) was 184,000 mt and total harvests (including CDQ) were 

152,161 mt, equivalent to 85 percent of the TAC (Figure 35 and Table 48). The GOA shallow-water flatfish 

complex, which includes yellowfin sole, rarely approaches its TAC. In 2014, the GOA shallow-water flatfish 

harvest of 4,748 mt filled just 14 percent of the 33,679 mt TAC. 

Table 48. Yellowfin Sole Harvest Volume in Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Gulf of Alaska Shallow Water 

Flatfish Complex* 5,410 3,974 4,022 5,515 4,748

Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands 113,245 146,418 142,132 158,781 152,161 

BSAI TAC 219,000 196,000 202,000 198,000 184,000

Total Harvest 118,655 150,392 146,154 164,296 156,078

*Due to confidentiality, exact harvest rates for yellowfin sole in GOA are not available. They are managed under the shallow water 

flatfish Complex, which encompasses several flatfish. This estimate will be higher than actual GOA yellowfin sole harvests.

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports.

Product Description and Supply Chain

Yellowfin sole average 42 cm long (approximately 16.5 in.) and weigh 750 g (1.65 lb). The primary products 

produced in Alaska are frozen headed and gutted (H&G) (83 percent of production volume) and frozen whole 

fish (16 percent). Yellowfin sole is a white fish with delicate, sweet, and mild-tasting flesh. The most common 

H&G size is approximately 130-450 g and most whole groundfish are 200-700 g.

43 Almost all yellowfin sole 

are exported to China where they are processed into fillets. These twice-frozen fillets are primarily sold as 

frozen skinless, boneless 2-4 oz fillets.44 Sole are commonly served poached, sautéed, or steamed.

The supply chain for yellowfin sole begins with catcher processors in Alaska that export frozen H&G product 

to secondary processors in China. Secondary processors transform the fish into its frozen skinless, boneless 

fillets, primarily for re-export. Twice-frozen fillets are then sold to distributors who sell fish to retail and 

foodservice operators in Europe, Japan, and the United States. 

 43 (Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, 2012)

44 (Pacific Seafood, 2014b)

0

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

140,000

160,000

1983198419861987198819891990199119921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Harvest Volume (mt)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 59

Production Volume and Value

Alaska produced 93,794 mt of yellowfin sole products in 2014 worth $97.8 million (Figure 36 and Table 49). 

The species accounted for 9.6 percent of total groundfish production volume and 4.2 percent of the total first 

wholesale value for groundfish species in 2014. Yellowfin sole are primarily harvested by the Amendment 80 

fleet of catcher processors, which consists of 19 vessels. This fleet also targets other flatfish and rockfish 

species. From 2010 to 2014, flatfish accounted for the majority (60 percent) of Amendment 80 fleet harvests. 

The first wholesale value of yellowfin sole 

has been pushed lower due to an increase 

in whitefish competition.

Yellowfin sole prices are highly dependent 

on when they are harvested. Fish caught in 

the winter, prior to spawning, command 

higher prices. Flesh quality declines 

significantly during and after spawning, 

resulting in lower prices. 

Figure 36. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Alaska Yellowfin Sole, 2010-2014

Table 49. First Wholesale Value of Alaska Yellowfin Sole, in $Millions

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$76.6 $125.0 $122.4 $121.7 $97.8

Source: AKFIN. 

Photo Courtesy of O’Hara Corporation.

$800

$900

$1,000

$1,100

$1,200

$1,300

$1,400

$1,500

$1,600

$1,700

 -

 10,000

 20,000

 30,000

 40,000

 50,000

 60,000

 70,000

 80,000

 90,000

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value/mt

Volume (mt)

H&G Other Whole Fish Value/mt

0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 60

Wholesale Market Profile for Rock Sole

Rock sole (Lepidopsetta polyxystra) is the second most abundant flatfish by wholesale volume (after yellowfin 

sole) from the Gulf of Alaska (GOA) and the Bering Sea. Alaska is responsible for the majority of the global 

rock sole harvest. In 2014, rock sole accounted for 18 percent of the total first wholesale volume and 19

percent of wholesale value for Alaska flatfish. Most of Alaska’s rock sole production is exported to China, 

Japan, or South Korea as headed and gutted (H&G) or whole fish products. Rock sole generate a higher unit 

value per metric ton than yellowfin sole due to markets for their roe. This market profile summarizes 

production and markets for rock sole fisheries in Alaska. 

Table 50. Summary Profile of Rock Sole Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 

Value and Volume Key Products H&G H&G with Roe Whole Round

First Wholesale Production (mt) 30,808 Pct. of Value 51% 34% 11%

Pct. of Global Flatfish Harvest (2013) 6% Key Markets China South Korea Other

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $39.7 Pct. of 1st Sales 85% 16% 1%

Pct. of Alaska Groundfish Value 1.6% YOY Change -13% 36% -70%

Pct. Flatfish Volume 18% Competing species: Other flatfish, tilapia, whitefish

Fishery Summary

Rock sole refers to two demersal species, northern 

rock sole and southern rock sole, which are not 

differentiated commercially.45 Most commonly 

targeted by vessels using trawl gear, the majority of 

rock sole are taken in February-March when females 

are bearing eggs. The largest concentration is in the 

Eastern Bering Sea, but the GOA also yields a sizeable 

flatfish harvest but the species is managed as part of 

a broader shallow-water flatfish complex, also 

including yellowfin sole, Alaska plaice, and other 

small shallow-water flatfish. Flatfish species are 

primarily targeted by the Amendment 80 catcher 

processer trawl fleet, but also caught by American Fisheries Act (AFA) trawl catcher processors, AFA trawl 

catcher vessels, and non-AFA trawl vessels operating in Alaska. Rock sole are relatively sedentary, compared 

to other sole. 

Sole were harvested by foreign fleets until the Magnuson-Stevens Act (MSA) in 1977. U.S. joint venture 

fisheries began in 1980 and now dominate global landings of rock sole. Alaska fishing efforts have increased 

since the 1990s and early 2000s. Since 2008, the targeted fishery has operated as a catch share fishery

(Amendment 80), with participants operating as cooperatives. The new cooperative structure allows 

companies to operate more efficiently, maximize product retention, and minimize bycatch. Rock sole are 

caught primarily by trawl catcher-processors and almost all are processed at-sea in the Bering Sea Aleutian 

Islands (BSAI) region. There is a small amount of rock sole caught by the lower 48, but the majority of the 

catch is Alaska.

 45 Gibson, Nash, Geffen, and Van der Veer (2014)

Photo from NMFS AFSC.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 61

Figure 37. Rock Sole Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt), 1985-2014

Source: NMFS (OST). 

The 2014 total allowable catch (TAC) in the BSAI was 85,000 mt and total harvests were 49,791 mt (Figure 

37), representing 61 percent of the TAC (Table 51). BSAI rock sole are targeted for a short period right before 

they spawn, and then the fleet shifts to targeting other species such as yellowfin sole and Greenland turbot.

A relatively small amount of rock sole are caught as part of the Gulf of Alaska shallow water flatfish complex.

Table 51. Rock Sole Harvest Volume in Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Gulf of Alaska 3,260 3,063 2,816 4,014 3,390

Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands 50,160 56,105 71,002 56,623 49,791 

Total Harvest 53,420 59,168 73,818 60,637 53,181

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports and NMFS (OST).

Product Description and Supply Chain

Rock sole average about 61 cm in length 

(approximately 24 in.) and weigh between 2 to 4 lb 

(900-1,800 g).46 The primary products produced in 

Alaska are frozen H&G (51 percent of production 

volume), frozen H&G with roe (34 percent), and 

whole fish (11 percent). The general H&G size is 

approximately 500-2,500 grams and whole round is 

750-3,500 g.

47

Rock sole are primarily caught by catcher 

processors in Alaska targeting roe-bearing females. 

Most male rock sole are sold to China and the 

females with eggs are exported to Japan. Almost all 

H&G and whole round rock sole is processed in 

China into fillets that are re-exported into the 

 46 (Washington Department of Fish and Wildlife, 2015)

47 (Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, 2012; Pacific Seafood, 2014b)

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

70,000

80,000

198519861987198819891990199119921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Harvest Volume (mt)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 62

United States. It is primarily sold as frozen skinless, boneless 2-5 oz fillets. It is also sold as H&G, roe-in to 

Japan, where it is a specialty item that is grilled whole. Rock sole is a delicate and mild-tasting whitefish. It is 

commonly served poached, sautéed, or steamed.

The short duration, high value roe fishery is unique to the flatfish species. During the spawning months, fish 

with roe intact are hand processed with roe-in, a more expensive processing technique than standard H&G.

Figure 38. Alaska Rock Sole Supply Chain

Production Volume and Value

Alaska produced 30,808 mt of rock sole products in 2014 worth $39.7 million (Table 52). The species 

accounted for 3.2 percent of total groundfish production volume and 1.6 percent of groundfish value in 2014. 

Rock sole are primarily harvested by the Amendment 80 fleet of catcher processors, which consists of 18 

vessels. This fleet also targets other flatfish (sole/flounder), rockfish, and Atka mackerel, and is responsible 

for most Alaska production of these species. In 2014, flatfish accounted for the majority of these species 

combined first wholesale value (59 percent), while rockfish and Atka mackerel accounted for 23 and 18

percent, respectively.

Table 52. Alaska Rock Sole Production Volume and Value, 2014

Volume 

(mt)

Value 

($thousands)

Recovery 

Range Price/kg Pct. of Total Volume

Pct. of Total 

Value

H&G 19,799 $20,463 60-79% $1.03 64% 51%

H&G, roe-in 6,736 13,434 60-79% 1.99 22% 34%

Whole fish 3,729 4,530 80-94% 1.21 12% 11%

Other* 544 1,309 22-92% 2.41 2% 3%

Total 30,808 $39,736 - $1.29 100% 100%

*Other category includes fillets, which are hand processed. While only 2 percent of total value, they command the highest price per 

pound.

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Rock sole is similar to other flatfish, except for the roe-in market. In 2014, a third of the total rock sole 

wholesale value came from H&G roe-in. H&G product with roe was worth nearly twice as much, on a per 

Alaska Catcher 

Processors

Frozen H&G

China 

(reprocessing)

Twice Frozen 

Fillets

Frozen H&G, 

roe-in

Japan Retail 

Outlets & 

Restaurants

Whole Fish

China 

(reprocessing)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 63

pound basis, as regular H&G product. H&G, H&G roe-in, and whole fish made up 98 percent of the total rock 

sole production volume in 2014 (Figure 39). 

Figure 39. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Rock Sole, 2010-2014

Rock Sole Wholesale Price per Metric Ton

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

H&G $1,241 $1,530 $1,769 $1,200 $1,040

H&G, roe-in 1,859 2,311 2,818 1,884 1,985

Other 1,179 1,656 1,551 2,226* 1,366

Total Avg. $/mt $1,368 $1,705 $1,990 $1,333 $1,290

*Indicates unusually high production of fillets, which are hand-processed.

Source: AKFIN. 

Key Markets for Alaska Sole Species 

Based on U.S. export statistics, roughly 85 percent of 

Alaska’s yellowfin and rock sole is exported to China

(Tables 53 and 54). The balance flows to South Korea, or 

remains in the U.S. market. Whole or H&G yellowfin sole is 

exported to re-processors in China where it is converted 

into individual frozen skinless, boneless fillets. The majority 

are re-exported back into North America and Europe for 

use in food service and for retail. A portion of yellowfin sole 

is sold as kirimi (slices of fish), which is popular in Japanese 

cafeterias.48 Korea tends to purchase smaller fish, which 

tend to be cheaper per kilogram. 

Most rock sole is combined with other flatfish which is 

exported to China and reprocessed as frozen fillets and 

other products. The highest value product, H&G with roe 

intact, is consumed in Japan.

 48 Interview with domestic seafood company representative.

 $-

 $10

 $20

 $30

 $40

 $50

 $60

 $70

 $80

 $90

 -

 5,000

 10,000

 15,000

 20,000

 25,000

 30,000

 35,000

 40,000

 45,000

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($millions)

Volume (mt)

Other Whole Fish H&G with Roe H&G Wholesale Value

Yellowfin sole kirimi.

Photo Courtesy of Everfish.

0 $0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 64

Table 53. U.S. Yellowfin Sole Exports by Major Country (mt), 2013-2014

2013 2014 YOY Pct. 

Change in 

Volume

Pct. Share of 

Exports Volume 

(mt)

Value 

($thousands)

Volume 

(mt)

Value 

($thousands)

China 62,680 $89,057 62,095 $86,134 -1% 86%

South Korea 9,381 12,775 10,017 12,264 7% 14%

Other 28 35 32 161 11% 1%

Total 72,089 $101,867 72,143 $98,559 <1 % 100%

Source: NMFS Foreign Trade data.

Table 54. U.S. Rock Sole Exports by Major Country (mt), 2013-2014

2013 2014 YOY Pct. 

Change in 

Volume

Pct. Share of 

Exports Volume 

(mt)

Value 

($thousands)

Volume 

(mt)

Value 

($thousands)

China 18,989 $31,686 16,557 $26,336 -13% 85%

Japan 1,947 3,495 2,649 4,463 36% 14%

South Korea 503 907 149 254 -70% 1%

Other 256 584 136 295 -47% 1%

Total 21,695 $36,671 19,491 $31,348 -10% 100%

Source: NMFS Foreign Trade data.

China

China is responsible for reprocessing most Alaska-caught yellowfin and rock sole, which is processed with 

other flatfish into frozen portioned fillets. Approximately 80 percent of all China’s flatfish exports go to 

Europe, Japan, and the United States (Table 55). As China’s economy grows, an increasing number of whole 

round sole remain in the domestic market. Both yellowfin and rock sole require hand processing, which is 

labor-intensive. Due to lower labor costs, much of the flatfish catch from Alaska is processed in China. 

Table 55. China Flatfish Exports, by Value and Volume, 2012-2014

2012 2013 2014 Pct. Market Share (3 

yr. avg.) Value 

($millions)

Volume 

(mt)

Value 

($millions)

Volume 

(mt)

Value 

($millions)

Volume 

(mt)

Europe $97.9 20,140 $87.0 19,595 $99.1 24,939 29%

Japan 99.0 18,416 106.1 19,344 106.2 20,577 26%

U.S. 88.1 17,363 95.5 18,852 81.9 17,139 24%

Taiwan 5.1 289 19.9 984 36.2 2,197 2%

Canada 24.5 4,626 26.0 4,844 31.5 5,947 7%

Other 27.5 7,289 34.1 9,452 39.3 11,896 13%

Total $342.2 68,123 $368.7 73,071 $394.2 82,695 100%

Source: Global Trade Atlas.

Japan

Japan imports 4 percent of Alaska’s frozen H&G rock sole, primarily females with roe intact. They also import 

reprocessed rock sole roe and kirimi from China. H&G fish are commonly grilled with the roe inside as a 

delicacy. According to industry experts, Japanese demand has decreased for this specialty product, resulting 

in lower prices. From 2013 to 2014, export volume from the United States to Japan increased by 36 percent, 

but the price per kilogram decreased by 6 percent.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 65

Table 56. U.S. Rock Sole Exports to Japan 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2013-2014 Pct. 

Change

Volume (mt) 4,569 3,149 1,256 1,947 2,649 36%

Price/kg $1.38 $1.68 $1.63 $1.80 $1.69 -6%

Value ($thousands) $6,325 $5,282 $2,048 $3,495 $4,463 28%

Source: NMFS Foreign Trade data.

United States and Europe

The United States and Europe consume a large amount of flatfish, most of it processed in China (Figure 40). 

Flatfish include a variety of groundfish species such as sole, flounder, and plaice. Both end markets consume 

flounder in fast food restaurants as well as in grocery stores in the frozen aisle. In the United States, about 75 

percent of the sole and flounder imports enter through the East Coast, a region where flounder is a 

traditional meal. 

Figure 40. Share of U.S. Imports of Sole, by Region/Country, 2014

Note: Figures refer to import volumes. 

Source: NMFS Foreign Trade data.

The unit value of imported frozen sole fillets (into the United States) from China is down 17 percent from the 

peak in 2012. Year-to-date import unit values through August 2015 for these frozen sole fillets are down 9 

percent from calendar year 2014. The decline is likely due to a number of factors, including: more competing 

pollock supply, lower fuel costs, and a stronger U.S. dollar. In addition, Europe’s harvests of plaice, a 

substitute for yellowfin sole, have increased leading to lower demand for yellowfin sole. 

China

87%

Europe

8%

Canada

4%

Other

1%
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 66

Figure 41. Cost/Value Added to Sole by Chinese Secondary Processors, 2007-2015

Source: NMFS Foreign Trade data, AKFIN, and McDowell Group estimates.

Prices of frozen sole fillets imported by the United States from China generally track the value/mt of frozen 

Alaska H&G sole. However, the price gap between primary and finished product has increased over the past 

decade supporting industry's claims of increasing secondary processing costs in China (Figure 41). The 

difference between the first wholesale value/mt of Alaska H&G sole and the value/mt of imported sole fillets 

from China increased from $2,565/mt in 2006 to $3,289/mt in 2014. These data suggest that although import 

prices for frozen sole fillets were generally flat over the last decade, the percentage of value retained by 

Alaska producers declined - particularly in recent years. 

Other Markets

South Korea consumes some yellowfin sole domestically. The country is the end market for lower quality 

yellowfin that have already spawned. Koreans also highly value the whole fish appearance; marks and flaws 

in the gills and eyes detract from value in this market. A substantial portion of the end market for whole fish 

is Korea.

Brazil was a growing market until it recently banned fish imports with water-retention preservatives used to 

improve the quality of the flesh, which includes most twice-frozen yellowfin sole from China.49

 49 Interview with domestic seafood producers representative.

$2,000

$2,200

$2,400

$2,600

$2,800

$3,000

$3,200

$3,400

$3,600

$0

$500

$1,000

$1,500

$2,000

$2,500

$3,000

$3,500

$4,000

$4,500

$5,000

2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Difference in Value per mt

Average Value per mt

Value/mt of U.S.

Imports of

Frozen Sole from

China (Mostly

Fillets)

First Wholesale

Value/mt of

H&G Alaska Sole

Value/mt

Difference of

Sole Imports and

First Wholesale

of H&G Alaska

Sole"
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 67

Global Production and Competing Supply 

Both yellowfin and rock sole are primarily processed at-sea in H&G format destined for fillet processing in 

China. In the last 5 years, Alaska’s first wholesale volume for flatfish is approximately 50 percent yellowfin 

sole, 20 percent rock sole, and 30 percent other species combined (Figure 42). The majority of the flatfish are 

caught by the Amendment 80 fleet, which targets schools of flatfish, depending on seasons. Yellowfin sole 

are targeted until they spawn, from winter until early spring. Rock sole are targeted during late winter-early 

spring, just before they spawn. 

Figure 42. Composition of Alaska Flatfish Production, by Species, by First Wholesale Volume, 2010-2014

Source: AKFIN.

In terms of contributions to the global flatfish supply, Alaska yellowfin sole was about 14 percent of total 

flatfish supply volume and rock sole was 6 percent (Figure 43). Alaska’s contribution to global production of 

flatfish has been increasing since the mid-1980s. Alaska flatfish continue to compete with species such as 

European plaice and dabs. Global flatfish supply has remained fairly constant over the past 4 decades, but the 

U.S. contribution increased from 10 percent in 1977 to 48 percent in 2013 (Figure 44). Most Alaska sole and 

flounder ends up in either the United States or Europe. The U.S. end market allows for multiple species to be 

labeled as “flounder.” However, Europe requires species to be labeled with the Latin name, which reduces 

the amount of sole sold as flounder. 

Yellowfin 

Sole

53%

Rock Sole

18%

Arrowtooth 

Flounder

13%

Flathead 

Sole

5%

Alaska Plaice

5%

Other

6%
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 68

Figure 43. Average Composition of Global Production of Flatfish, by Species, by Volume, 2010-2013 

Source: FAO Stats.

Figure 44. Global Flatfish Supply and Alaska Harvest of Yellowfin and Rock Sole (mt), 1975-2013

Note: Figures include all flatfish globally. 

Source: FAO Stats and NMFS (OST).

 -

 50,000

 100,000

 150,000

 200,000

 250,000

 -

 100,000

 200,000

 300,000

 400,000

 500,000

 600,000

 700,000

 800,000

 900,000

 1,000,000

19751977197919811983198519871989199119931995199719992001200320052007200920112013

Alaska Rock and Yellowfin Sole Supply (mt)

Global Supply of Flatfish (mt)

Global Flatfish Alaska Rock Sole Alaska Yellowfin Sole

Yellowfin 

Sole

14% Greenland 

Turbot

12%

European 

Plaice

10%

Rock Sole

6% Arrowtooth 

Flounder

4%

Flatfishes 

(other or not 

specified)

54%

0 0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 69

Wholesale Market Profile for Atka Mackerel

Atka mackerel production was valued at $63.3 million in 2014, accounting for 2.6 percent of the first 

wholesale value of all Alaska groundfish. Production volume was 35 percent lower than the previous 4 year 

average in 2014, but 2014 production value trailed the average by only 4 percent due to higher prices. 

Virtually all of Alaska’s Atka mackerel production is exported to Japan, China, or South Korea as a frozen 

headed and gutted (H&G) product. Alaska produced 18 percent of global Atka mackerel harvests in 2013. This 

market profile summarizes production and markets for Atka mackerel fisheries in Alaska. 

Table 57. Summary Profile of Atka Mackerel Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 

Value and Volume Key Products H&G Other

First Wholesale Production (mt) 20,900 Pct. of Value 93% 7%

Pct. of Global Harvest (2013) 18% Key Markets Japan China Korea

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $63.3 Pct. of Final Sales 65% 19% 14%

Pct. Change in Value from Prior 4-yr Avg. -4.0% YOY Change 62% 46% 25%

Pct. of Alaska Groundfish Value 2.6% Competing Species: Okhotsk Atka mackerel

Atka mackerel is a key species for Alaska’s Amendment 80 fleet, which also targets high volume flatfish 

(sole/flounder) and rockfish (including Pacific ocean perch). Atka mackerel accounted for 18 percent of the 

combined first wholesale value of these three target species in 2014. 

Fishery Summary

Atka mackerel (Pleurogrammus monopterygius) is a semidemersal species most commonly targeted by Amendment 80 

trawl catcher processors around the Aleutian Islands. Fish are 

also caught as a sideboard species by AFA trawl catcher 

processors, AFA trawl catcher vessels, and other trawl vessels 

operating in Alaska. 

Adult fish occur in large localized aggregations at depths less 

than 200 m over rough, uneven bottom areas with high tidal 

currents. Atka mackerel move off the bottom during daylight 

hours presumably to feed on their main prey, euphausiids and copepods. Predators of Atka mackerel include 

Pacific cod, arrowtooth flounder, Steller sea lions and seabirds. They begin to recruit to the fishery at age 3

and longevity can extend to 15 years.

U.S. joint venture fisheries began in 1980 and dominated landings of Atka mackerel from 1982 to 1988. The 

last joint venture allocation of Atka mackerel off Alaska was in 1989. Peak domestic catch occurred in 1996. 

The Atka mackerel fishery is heavily regulated to minimize the potential for prey competition with Steller sea 

lions, including seasonal allowances of the total allowable catch (TAC) and spatial distribution of the fishery 

away from critical habitat. Since 2008, the fishery has operated as a catch share fishery, with participants 

operating as cooperatives.

The vast majority of Atka mackerel is caught in waters around the Aleutian Island chain in western Alaska. 

Fishermen typically harvest 90 percent or more of the Atka mackerel TAC each year (Tables 59 and 59). Atka

mackerel harvests declined by 66 percent between 2010 and 2013, but 2015-2016 TACs have returned to a 

levels near historic norms (Figure 45).

Photo from NMFS (AFSC).
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 70

Figure 45. Atka Mackerel Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt) 1986-2014

Source: NMFS (OST). 

Much of the decline in TACs was related to protection measures for Steller sea lions, which are listed as an 

endangered species in western Alaska rather than a decrease in species biomass. Atka mackerel are an 

important prey species for Steller sea lions. Recent mitigation measures have allowed for higher TACs 

without impacting endangered Steller sea lion populations. 

Table 58. Atka Mackerel Harvest Volume in Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Gulf of Alaska 2,417 1,615 1,188 1,277 1,042

Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands 68,646 51,809 47,826 23,180 30,947

Total 71,063 53,424 49,014 24,457 31,989

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports.

Amendment 80 Catcher Processors. Photo Courtesy of Fishermen’s Finest

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

70,000

80,000

90,000

100,000

19861987198819891990199119921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Harvest Volume (mt)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 71

Table 59. Atka Mackerel TACs in All Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2016

Year

Total Allowable 

Catch (mt)

Pct. 

Harvested

2010 76,000 94%

2011 55,080 97%

2012 52,763 93%

2013 27,920 88%

2014 34,322 93%

2015 56,500 -

2016 56,817 -

Source: NMFS Harvest Specification Tables.

Product Description and Supply Chain

Most Atka mackerel are between 37 to 47 cm long (approximately 14.5 to 18.5 in.) and weigh 300 to 600 g

(0.66 to 1.32 lb).50 The primary products produced in Alaska are frozen H&G (84 percent of production 

volume) and frozen whole fish (16 percent). Japan produces about 10,000 mt of Atka mackerel surimi, though 

it is unclear whether that product is manufactured using Alaska product or other sources.51 

Atka mackerel flesh offers a high oil content and has a strong, distinct flavor. In its raw form, the fish’s meat is 

firm and brownish but turns to a creamy white color when cooked. Atka mackerel is typically consumed as 

split/salted product, often grilled and served with rice. 

Atka mackerel are primarily caught by catcher processors in Alaska and exported as a frozen H&G product to 

secondary processors in Japan, South Korea, and northern China. Secondary processors transform the fish 

into its finished split/salted form. Local processors and distributors sell the fish to retailers.

There are actually two separate species often referred to as “Atka mackerel.” The Pleurogrammus 

monopterygius species caught in Alaska is the less abundant of the two, while the “Okhotsk Atka mackerel” 

(Pleurogrammus azonus) is the other, more abundant variety. The species are not widely differentiated and 

comments about Atka mackerel markets or global supply extend to both species unless otherwise noted. 

Production Volume and Value

Alaska produced 20,900 mt of Atka mackerel products in 2014 worth $63.3 million (Figure 46 and Table 60). 

The species accounted for 2.1 percent of total groundfish production volume and 2.6 percent of the total first 

wholesale value for groundfish species in 2014. Atka mackerel are primarily harvested by the Amendment 80 

fleet of catcher processors, which consists of 18 vessels. This fleet also targets flatfish and rockfish species. 

Outside of 2013, the first wholesale value of Atka mackerel has remained surprisingly steady since 2009 -

despite substantial declines in production volume. Rising prices largely offset lower production volumes in 

recent years, resulting in a similar total in first wholesale value in most years between 2009 and 2014. 

Production is expected to continue rebounding with higher TACs set in 2015 and 2016. Given past recovery 

rates, 2015/2016 TACs are likely to produce approximately 35,000 mt of first wholesale product, similar to 

the average production from 2005 to 2012.

 50 (Alaska Seafood Cooperative, 2015a)

51 (Park, 2014)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 72

Figure 46. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Atka Mackerel, 2005-2014

Table 60. First Wholesale Value of Atka Mackerel, in $Millions, 2005-2014

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$36.9 $38.8 $40.4 $38.1 $67.7 $74.4 $75.4 $74.8 $39.5 $63.3

Source: AKFIN. 

Key Markets for Atka Mackerel

Based on U.S. export statistics, approximately 60 percent of Alaska’s Atka mackerel ends up in Japan (Table 

61). The balance is primarily exported to China and South Korea, or remains in the U.S. market. 

Unfortunately, H.S. (foreign trade) codes do not uniformly identify Atka mackerel, making it difficult to track 

actual imports of Alaska product. South Korean import statistics specifically identifying Atka mackerel 

suggests that much of what is exported to South Korea actually enters the Korean market, as opposed to 

being re-exported, which is often the case with some other species. Given the product’s history and regional 

demand, it is likely that China also consumes some of its imported volume as well. Despite niche demand for 

Atka mackerel in China and South Korea, the general market is dominated by Japan.

Table 61. Alaska Atka Mackerel Exports by Major Country (mt), 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Japan 15,312 12,183 11,449 7,787 12,627

China 7,835 6,850 5,590 2,554 3,741

South Korea 2,185 2,690 2,418 2,244 2,811

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database.

Total export volume of Atka mackerel is typically less the total production volume. Normally, this would 

suggest some product remains in the domestic market. However, anecdotal reports from the domestic 

seafood industry indicate very little product, if any, is sold into the U.S. domestic market. The reason for 

discrepancies between export and total production volume is more likely a result of inaccurate export coding, 

where a percentage of product is coded as a non-specific groundfish. 

0

500

1,000

1,500

2,000

2,500

3,000

3,500

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

40,000

45,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value/mt

Volume (mt)

Volume (mt) Value/mt
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 73

Japan

The majority of Alaska’s Atka mackerel is exported to Japanese 

markets, where it is particularly popular in the northern 

Hokkaido region. The most common preparation involves 

splitting, drying, and salting a headed and gutted fish (known as 

hokke no hiraki).52 Typically, the fish is then grilled and served 

with a side of steamed rice. 

Atka mackerel, known as shima hokke in Japan, has a unique 

cultural significance and is a symbolic fish in the Hokkaido 

region. According to legend, the hokke fish was discovered by a 

13th century Buddhist disciple named Nichiji who founded a 

temple in northern Japan and went on to settle in China.53 The 

fish has a long symbolic and commercial tradition in Hokkaido, where domestic landings peaked in 1998 at 

240,000 mt supporting a market for split/salted hokke and hokke surimi. 

Retail hokke prices and wholesale Atka mackerel prices have risen sharply in recent years due to declining 

harvests in Japan as well as Alaska. Japan harvested 52,700 mt of Atka mackerel in 2013. Japanese landings 

plunged further to 28,000 mt in 2014, and through May 2015 domestic landings in major Japanese ports 

were down over 50 percent from the prior year.54 Declining harvest trends in Japan puts Alaska in a better 

market position; however, Japanese consumers are extremely flexible when it comes to substituting seafood 

species. Time will tell how high hokke prices can go before reaching a maximum acceptable price for most 

consumers. 

Atka and horse mackerel55 species have historically been important species for Japan’s domestic surimi 

producers. However, declining harvests and rising prices have prompted Japanese surimi producers to 

substitute other species for raw material used in surimi production. 

Global Production and Competing Supply 

Alaska accounted for 25 percent of global Atka mackerel harvests between 2011 and 2013, the most recent 3

years with complete data for all countries. Historically, Japan is the largest producer but its harvests have 

declined significantly since 2008 - down 69 percent through 2013. Japanese fishermen have harvested 

substantial volumes of the species for many decades, but current harvest levels are lower than any point in at 

least 45 years based on Japanese trade press reports. Russia was the second largest producer in 2013, slightly 

behind Japan. Like Alaska, Russia began harvesting Atka mackerel in the 1980s (Figure 47). 

In 2013, Atka mackerel harvests reached their lowest point since the late 1980s and were down 55 percent 

since 2008. During that recent 6 year period of declining global harvests, the ex-vessel price of Alaska’s Atka 

mackerel approximately doubled. 

 52 (Hokkaido Food Library, 2015)

53 The fish discovered by Nichiji was actually Okhotsk Atka mackerel (Pleurogrammus azonus), a very close relative to the Atka mackerel found 

in Alaska waters and often used interchangeably as hokke in Japan. 

54 Hokkaido Food Library, 2015.

55 “Horse mackerel” is a generic name given to a range of species, predominantly from the Carangidae (jack mackerels and scads) family. Fish 

included in the Trachurus (including Atlantic horse mackerel) and Caranx genera encompass most of the horse mackerel category.

Wikimedia Commons, CC-BY-SA 3.0 lic., katorisi
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 74

Figure 47. Global Atka Mackerel Harvest (mt) 1980-2013

Note: Figures include both species of Atka mackerel (P. monopterygius and P. azonus). 

Source: FAO and NMFS (OST). 

0

50,000

100,000

150,000

200,000

250,000

300,000

350,000

400,000

1980198119821983198419851986198719881989199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013

Volume (mt)

Alaska Japan Russia Others
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 75

Wholesale Market Profile for Pacific Ocean Perch

Pacific ocean perch (POP, Sebastes alutus) is the most abundant rockfish species in Alaska, comprising 81

percent of the first wholesale value of all Alaska rockfish in 2014. Overall, POP represented 2.7 percent of the 

first wholesale value of all Alaska groundfish in 2014. The vast majority of Alaska POP is exported to China 

(for reprocessing) and Japan – the species’ largest consumer market. Alaska’s POP production accounted for 

20 percent of global rockfish harvests in 2013. This market profile summarizes production and markets for 

POP fisheries in Alaska. 

Table 62. Summary Profile of Pacific Ocean Perch Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 

Value and Volume Key Products H&G Other

First Wholesale Production (mt) 23,400 Pct. of Value 93% 7%

Pct. of Global Rockfish Harvest (2013) 20% Key Markets China Japan U.S.

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $65.4 Pct. of Final Sales 60% 29% 6%

Pct. Change in Value from Prior 4-yr Avg. 15.2% YOY Change 87% 28% N/A

Pct. of Alaska Groundfish Value 2.7% Competing Species: Redfish and other rockfish species.

POP is a key species for the Amendment 80 fleet, which also harvests high volume flatfish (sole/flounder),

Atka mackerel, and other rockfish species. POP accounted for 19 percent of the combined first wholesale 

value of these species in 2014.

Fishery Summary

POP are one of about 70 different kinds of rockfish (Sebastes 

spp.) and accounts for the vast majority of rockfish caught in 

Alaska. POP are a slow-growing species, capable of living to 

nearly 100 years of age. The fish primarily inhabit waters 

along the continental slope at depths of 180 to 420 m. 

Despite their age, the average POP harvested in commercial 

fisheries are only about 36 cm (14.2 in.) long with a round 

weight of slightly less than a pound to a little over 2 lb. 

Figure 48. Pacific Ocean Perch Harvest Volume in Alaska (mt) 1977-2014

Image from NOAA Fishwatch.gov.

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

1977197919811983198519871989199119931995199719992001200320052007200920112013

Harvest Volume (mt)

Source: NMFS OST (1977-2013) and NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports (2014).
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 76

POP are an important component of Alaska groundfish fisheries, with catches taken primarily from shelf 

breaks and gullies in the northern Gulf of Alaska and Aleutian Islands region during summer months 

(Table 63). Most POP are harvested by Amendment 80 catcher processors, and to a lesser extent, smaller 

catcher vessels. Catcher processors harvest multiple species, conduct primary processing aboard the vessel, 

and freeze their products on board. The most common fishing gear is otter trawls rigged to fish over 

generally rougher substrates. Rockfish nets are designed to stay off the bottom as much as possible by 

employing numerous floats to buoy the net body and codend. However, pelagic trawls are also widely used 

to target POP in the Gulf of Alaska. Changing fishery management techniques have also been implemented to 

reduce bycatch and maximize target species retention. In 2008, the new “Amendment 80” catch share fishery

went into effect dividing groundfish target quotas for sole, Atka mackerel, and POP and bycatch limits among 

cooperatives. The new cooperative approach ended the “race for fish” allowing vessels to fish cleaner and 

more efficiently.56

POP and other rockfish species are primarily harvested by the Amendment 80 fleet of catcher processors, 

which consists of 18 vessels. This fleet also targets flatfish species and Atka mackerel. POP and other rockfish 

species accounted for 23 percent the Amendment 80 fleet's first wholesale value in 2014.

Table 63. Pacific Ocean Perch Harvest Volume in Federal Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Gulf of Alaska 15,617 14,216 14,911 13,183 17,663

West GOA 3,141 1,819 2,452 447 2,096

Central GOA 10,550 10,527 10,777 11,199 13,697

West Yakutat/Southeast 1,926 1,870 1,682 1,537 1,870

Bering Sea and Aleutian Islands 17,852 24,004 24,142 31,392 32,383

Total 33,469 38,220 39,053 44,575 50,046

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports.

POP harvests averaged 18,100 mt between 1992 and 2004, but since then harvests are up 135 percent

(Figure 48). Alaska accounts for over 99 percent of POP caught in U.S. waters. Fishermen tend to harvest 90 

percent or more of the total allowable catch each year (Table 64). 

Table 64. Pacific Ocean Perch TACs in All Alaska Federal Fisheries (mt), 2012-2016

Year

Total Allowable 

Catch (mt)

Pct. 

Harvested

2012 39,757 98%

2013 49,707 90%

2014 50,307 99%

2015 52,210 -

2016 52,588 -

Source: NMFS Harvest Specification Tables.

 56 (Alaska Seafood Cooperative, 2015b)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 77

Product Description and Supply Chain

Approximately 80 percent of Alaska POP are processed by catcher processors or floating processors. 

Regardless of whether POP are processed at sea or in shoreside facilities, the vast majority (87 percent) are 

converted into a frozen headed and gutted (H&G) product, which 250 to 650 g (approx. 0.55 to 1.43 lb).57

Larger POP and other rockfish species are occasionally filleted in shoreside plants, but overall fillets accounts 

for a minor part of total production. 

POP, like other rockfish, have a light-colored, firm flesh. Some POP fillets have a pinkish hue when raw, but 

turn a creamy white when cooked. In wholesale markets, H&G products are grouped according to the 

following size specifications (essentially extra-small through extra-large):58 

• 2L: 620 – 900 g

• L: 460 – 620 g

• M: 370 – 460 g

• S: 300 – 370 g

• SS: 220 – 200 g

POP are often called “rockfish”, “redfish,” or simply “ocean perch” in wholesale and end markets. It is 

unlikely a consumer would see POP called out specifically on a retail label or restaurant menu. The species’ 

obscurity and firm, sweet taste is one reason it has become a more valuable alternative to other more 

expensive species, such as red snapper or orange roughy. Species substitution is illegal if retail or food service 

operators misrepresent species like red snapper for less expensive species, such as redfish, red drum, or 

tilapia. There is clearly a strong financial incentive to substitute species like POP for other, more expensive 

species. However, consumers are free to substitute POP in recipes and it would make sense for chefs to use 

smaller firm-fleshed fish (like POP) in dishes which do not require a large, expensive snapper fillet (provided 

they do not misrepresent the species used). 

Alaska functions as a primary processor and source of raw material in the greater rockfish supply chain. Most 

Alaska rockfish production consists of frozen H&G or whole-fish product exported to secondary processors in 

China and Japan who thaw, cut, freeze, and re-package fillets for sale to end markets. Based on anecdotal 

reports from domestic seafood industry representatives, virtually all product processed in China is reexported although attempts to develop a broader consumer market for Alaska seafood products in China 

continues. Japan is currently the largest consumer market for Alaska rockfish by a wide margin. Europe and 

the United States also buy smaller quantities of rockfish directly from Alaska, as well as twice frozen product 

from China. Before reaching consumers, POP is generally sold to retailers and restaurants through regional 

seafood distributors who maintain connections with processors in China and Alaska. 

Production Volume and Value

Alaska produced 25,400 mt of POP products in 2014 worth $65.4 million. Total rockfish production, including 

POP and other Sebastes species, was 32,300 mt valued at $81.2 million (Figure 49 and Table 65). Rockfish 

accounted for 3.3 percent of total groundfish production volume and value in 2014. Since POP and other 

rockfish species are so closely linked and substituted for in wholesale markets, wholesale production and 

market analysis from this point on focuses on all Alaska rockfish species (comprised primarily of POP). 

While Alaska rockfish production volume increased 116 percent, what is even more surprising is total first 

wholesale value increased 137 percent (in nominal terms) between 2005 and 2014. Typically, when supply 

increases significantly, total value lags behind as market prices adjust downward, reacting to greater product 

 57 (Alaska Seafood Cooperative, 2015b) 58 (Iquique US, 2015)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 78

availability. However, rockfish unit values (value/mt) trended up between 2008 and 2011, reacting to growing 

demand and a weaker Japanese yen. 

Figure 49. First Wholesale Volume and Value for Alaska Rockfish Species, 2005-2014

Table 65. First Wholesale Value of Alaska Rockfish Species, in $Millions, 2005-2014

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$34.2 $48.8 $42.8 $35.8 $38.4 $59.4 $94.9 $84.7 $67.8 $81.2

Source: AKFIN. 

The 2011 year is unique due to the March 2011 tsunami which struck Japan. The tsunami created additional 

demand for Alaska rockfish and Atka mackerel, as it decimated the country’s seafood industry and many 

storage facilities. Secondly, rebuilding the country caused the yen to strengthen substantially until 2013 –

making imported seafood relatively less expensive to Japanese consumers during 2011 and 2012. When 

Japan’s central bank began taking steps to weaken the yen in an effort to stimulate export-oriented 

industries Alaska seafood became relatively more expensive for Japanese consumers. Therefore, it is not 

surprising that 2011 and 2012 produced the highest (near-term) price and total value for Alaska rockfish.

Given declining prices, it could be assumed that demand for rockfish has subsided since 2011. However, 

aggregate demand, from the point of view of Japanese consumers, has increased notably. In yen terms, the 

total first wholesale value of Alaska rockfish increased 19 percent between 2011 and 2014 – even though it 

declined in U.S. dollar terms. 

Key Markets for Pacific Ocean Perch

Based on U.S. export statistics, approximately three-quarters of Alaska’s rockfish was sold to export markets 

in 2014 (Table 66). The balance was either sold to U.S. buyers or may have been exported under a less 

specific H.S. code. Historically, trade data on rockfish has shown far lower export volumes than expected. 

Coding appears to be improving; however, a time series of Alaska rockfish export data would likely present an 

inaccurate picture of actual trends. Due to the questions about underlying trade data, particularly in years 

prior to 2013, this analysis focuses on 2014 exports – the most recent data available. 

$500

$1,000

$1,500

$2,000

$2,500

$3,000

$3,500

$4,000

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value/mt

Volume (in mt) Value/mt
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 79

Table 66. Alaska Rockfish Exports by Major Country (mt), 2014

2014 Pct. of Total Production

China 15,566 48%

Japan 6,861 21%

South Korea 918 3%

Other Countries 458 1%

Total Exports 23,802 74%

Product Not Accounted For and/or U.S. sales 8,480 26%

Total Production 32,283 -

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database.

China

At least 48 percent of Alaska rockfish production was exported to China in 2014, and this figure is likely 

somewhat conservative (Table 66). Virtually all POP and other rockfish exported to China consists of frozen 

whole or H&G fish, which is filleted, and re-exported. Outside of the United States, using H.S. codes detailed 

enough to identify Alaska rockfish is even more uncommon. As a result, it is not possible to track competing 

supply of ocean perch and rockfish coming into China or the markets where it goes. 

However, based on the codes and instances where product is identified specifically as rockfish (Sebastes 

spp.), China’s major export markets appear to be Japan, Europe, Russia, and the United States. Japan 

imported 12,038 mt of “Fish Fillets, Frozen, Nesoi (H.S. code: 030489)” from China in 2014. Much of this 

volume, perhaps all, is likely ocean perch since shipments of “redfish” and “ocean perch” to other countries 

contain the same six-digit H.S. code. Europe imported approximately 3,600 mt of ‘030489’ product from 

China in 2014 which was specifically identified as rockfish (Sebastes). Russia imported 1,778 mt and the 

United States imported 839 mt of product from China identified as rockfish or ocean perch. 

Japan

POP is generally called akauo in Japan; however, the fish is known by several other names depending on the 

region (e.g. aka mebaru, arasukamenuke). Rockfish in general is known as menuke. Japanese consumers 

utilize POP in a variety of dishes. Common preparations include grilled POP (often marinated with kasuzuke) 

as an entrée in bento boxes, raw slices for sashimi/sushi, and boiled fillets in soups or broth. POP and other 

rockfish are harvested along most of Japan’s coastline. As such, it is less of a regional species compared to 

Atka mackerel. 

Japan is the largest consumer market for POP. Importers buy frozen fish from Chinese or Alaska processors, 

depending on the product demanded – once/twice frozen, fillets, or H&G. From there, most importers act as 

distributors for retails or food service operators. 

Wholesale prices in Japan are flat from last fall, but roughly 25 percent higher than a few years ago (as of 

September 2015). Domestic production is down as Japanese redfish quotas were set at 9,500 mt in 2014, half 

of the prior year’s level.59 In addition, European supply is down as there are fewer at-sea freezer boats fishing 

redfish and more demand for fresh product in European markets. 

Alaska is Japan’s largest rockfish/redfish supplier, both in direct terms and product routed through China

(Table 67). Europe is the second largest supplier, followed by domestic production and Russian imports. 

 59 Despite numerous references by trade press to domestic redfish production, FAO capture statistics showed no harvest of POP or other 

Sebastes spp. species in 2013. It is likely that Japanese redfish production is contained within a generic “marine fishes nei” listing. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 80

Table 67. Japan Imports of Rockfish by Major Trading Partner (mt), 2013 and 2014

2013 2014 YOY Pct. Change Pct. of Total Imports

U.S. (Alaska) 18,475 18,302 -1% 34%

China 11,047 12,065 9% 21%

Europe 15,764 12,056 -24% 25%

Russia 10,229 8,691 -15% 17%

Canada 1,060 1,464 38% 2%

Avg. Yen/kg Unit Value 489 531 9% -

Note: Includes HS codes ‘030389295’ and ‘030489290.’

Source: Japan Custom Statistics.

HS codes used to categorize internationally traded products vary in how specifically they are used in practice 

to describe rockfish species. A review of HS codes and trade patterns suggest the majority of rockfish 

imported by Japan is included the ‘030389295’ and ‘030489290’ codes.

Increasing Atka mackerel quotas in Alaska could impact prices for POP, according to Japanese trade press 

reports.60 Atka mackerel and POP are competitive species in the dried fish market in Japan, and although the two 

are not common substitutes in other recipes, consumers may choose one or the other depending on price. 

Global Production and Competing Supply 

Global rockfish production peaked in 1982 at 505,800 mt. Harvests were relatively flat and averaged 209,400 

mt from 2009 to 2013, the last 5 years with complete data (Figure 50). Europe is the largest producer of 

redfish/rockfish products, accounting for just over half (52 percent) of total production in 2013. Alaska POP 

accounted for one-fifth (20 percent) of global rockfish production in 2013. Including all rockfish species 

caught in all states, the United States accounted for 23 percent of global production. Russia and Canada 

together accounted for the other quarter of global production. 

Figure 50. Global Rockfish (Sebastes spp.) Harvest (mt), 1980-2013

Note: Figures include all Sebastes spp. species. 

Source: FAO.

FAO harvest statistics suggest relatively little Japanese production, terminating around 2009. Japanese trade 

press reports indicate Japan does harvest material volumes of rockfish/redfish species, on the order of 

10,000 mt. However, this production may be included under a different species category. 

 60 (Kidera, 2015)

0

100,000

200,000

300,000

400,000

500,000

600,000

1980198119821983198419851986198719881989199019911992199319941995199619971998199920002001200220032004200520062007200820092010201120122013

USSR/Russia Europe U.S. (mostly Alaska) Canada Japan Others
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 81

Wholesale Market Profile for Sablefish

Sablefish (Anoplopoma fimbria), whose market name is black cod, is found in waters from the Aleutian Island 

chain to Northern Mexico with a larger distribution concentrated in the North Pacific Ocean, primarily in the 

Gulf of Alaska. The fish has an extremely high oil content commands one of the highest ex-vessel prices of 

any species harvested in Alaska. Japan is the primary market and sablefish are also popular in China, but the 

fish can be found in many high-end seafood restaurants around the world. Sablefish accounted for $99.0 

million of Alaska’s total wholesale value in 2014 and nearly 15 million lb of production volume. The species 

accounted for 4.1 percent of Alaska groundfish first wholesale value in 2014, and 0.7 percent of production 

volume. 

Table 68. Summary Profile of Sablefish Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 

Value and Volume Key Products H&G Other

First Wholesale Production (mt) 6,700 Pct. of Value 97% 3%

Pct. of Global Sablefish Harvest (2013) 78% Key Markets Japan China Others

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $99.0 Pct. of 1st Sales 61% 9% 30%

Pct. Change in Value from Prior 4-yr Avg. -24.0% YOY Change -16% -16% N/A

Pct. of Alaska Groundfish Value 4.1% Competing Species: Patagonia toothfish (Chilean Seabass)

Fishery Summary

Sablefish are a highly migratory fish that live 

along the continental slope and shelf gullies at 

depths of 200 m and greater. In Alaska, sablefish 

are harvested primarily through fixed gear 

(longline and pot) while a small amount is caught 

in trawl nets. Fixed gear targets sablefish,

whereas bottom trawls capture sablefish within a 

mixed-species catch of groundfish, both of which are given quota allocation through Total Allowable Catch 

(TAC) for each region. The federal Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) program for halibut and sablefish was 

designed by the North Pacific Fishery Management Council and implemented by National Marine Fisheries 

Service in 1995. Under the IFQ program, the length of the fishing season increased from 14 days in 1994 to 8 

months today, leading to decreased fishermen mortality rates, increased Catch Per Unit Effort (total catch 

divided by total effort), and stronger ex-vessel prices.61 The federal IFQ fisheries account for the majority of 

sablefish harvests, with the state overseeing additional fisheries in the Aleutian Islands, Prince William Sound, 

Cook Inlet, and Southeast Alaska. Alaska accounted for 74 percent of total U.S. sablefish harvests in 2014, and 

the balance of the U.S. harvest takes place on the U.S. west coast which is also managed as a catch share 

fishery. The U.S. share of global sablefish production has averaged 87 percent over the last 10 years. 

 61 (Sigler & Lunsford, 2001)

Image from NOAA Fishwatch.gov.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 82

Sablefish has been harvested by Canadian and 

American fishing vessels since the 1900s. The original 

Japanese commercial longline fishery was replaced 

by domestic fishing efforts in 1977 after the 

Magnuson-Stevens Act eliminated foreign fishing 

vessels from the newly established Exclusive 

Economic Zone (EEZ), which extended U.S. marine 

boundaries to 200 miles from the coast. Today, 72 

percent of U.S. sablefish is exported to Japanese 

markets.62

Across Alaska, sablefish are primarily caught with 

fixed gear allocated according to each region’s 

Fishery Management Plan. However, trawl vessels 

also harvest sablefish and accounted for 8.3 percent 

of the 2014 harvest (Table 69). Fishermen in the Gulf of Alaska will soon have the option to use pot gear, a 

management response to increased sperm whale depredation in the fishery. Some whales have learned to 

eat hooked fish off (fixed) longline gear while fishermen are retrieving their catch. These interactions are 

dangerous for fishermen and whales, and also make it more difficult for fishery managers to account for the 

removal of additional biomass. 

Table 69. Sablefish Harvest Volume for Federal and State Fisheries (mt), 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Federal Fisheries

GOA Fixed (IFQ) 9,236 10,153 11,059 11,100 9,457

GOA Trawl 900 1,087 861 846 965

BSAI Fixed (IFQ) 1,247 1,279 1,329 1,122 754

BSAI Trawl 100 85 230 184 58

CDQ Harvest 504 366 389 391 319

State Fisheries

Prince William Sound 96 101 92 71 44

Southeast Alaska 732 646 676 670 568

Aleutian Islands 95 115 102 101 74

Cook Inlet 25 26 31 19 23

Total 12,935 13,858 14,769 14,504 12,262

Federal Pct. 92.7% 93.6% 93.9% 94.1% 94.2%

State Pct. 7.3% 6.4% 6.1% 5.9% 5.8%

Note: Volume in round-weight terms.

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports and ADF&G, 2015.

 62 (Sonu, 2014)

Photo from National Marine Fisheries Service.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 83

Product Description and Supply Chain

Sablefish is a premium-quality whitefish that can be smoked, 

grilled, and sautéed. It is sold in retail markets in frozen fillet 

form, often in a marinade. It is primarily exported to wholesale 

buyers in Japan and other niche Asian markets, where most 

volume is eventually sold into high-end restaurants. However, 

the domestic seafood industry representatives report that

domestic demand is growing. 

Shoreside processors in Alaska receive sablefish deliveries either 

in the round or eastern cut, on ice. While there are various 

sablefish products, most Alaska processors sell the fish headed 

and gutted (H&G) eastern cut (head removed just behind collar 

bone) (Table 70). 

The species’ high oil content and delicate texture make it a 

sought after product. Fish size largely determines pricing in 

wholesale markets, but prices are also impacted by quality, 

origin, supply, substitute fish prices, and the dollar-yen exchange 

rate. Sablefish are categorized by weight: the larger the fish, the 

higher the price per pound.63 Differences in wholesale prices 

often range from $0.75 to $1.50 for each additional pound.

Table 70. Common Sablefish Products, 2014 Alaska Production Volume, and Recovery Rates (Pct.)

2014 Alaska 

Production (mt)

Recovery Rate

Range

H&G (mostly Eastern cut) 6,287 60-67%

Pectoral Girdles (Collars) 151 N/A

Fillets 43 35-40%

Other Products 215 N/A

Note: Volume in product-weight terms.

Source: ADF&G (COAR) and Alaska Sea Grant (Crapo, Paust, & Babbit, 1993).

Supply Chain

Figure 51 illustrates the sablefish supply chain, from harvesters to consumers. Alaska sablefish is primarily 

harvested by relatively small boats (most less than 60 ft.) and delivered to shoreside plants either in the 

round or already headed and gutted. Freezer longliners (catcher processors) also participate in the sablefish 

IFQ fishery. The majority of product is sold in a frozen, H&G format to high-volume distributors in Japan and 

other Asian countries. These foreign importers sell product to secondary distributors in smaller volumes and 

sell product directly to retail and restaurant. Product sold into the domestic market is typically filleted by 

primary processors in Alaska or secondary processors/distributors. Regardless of whether sablefish is 

exported or sold domestically, it typically passes through one or two distributors before being sold to 

consumers at the retail level.

 63 (Reynolds, 2015)

Photo Courtesy of Jane Sullivan.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 84

Figure 51. Alaska Sablefish Supply Chain

Production Volume and Value

Volume and Value

In the last 10 years, Alaska fisheries have produced 71 percent of U.S. sablefish harvests. Volume peaked in 

the late eighties at 28,000 mt in Alaska, doubling current landing levels of 12,300 mt. The state’s sablefish 

production has been relatively stable since the late 1990s, but has declined each of the past 2 years (2013-

2014) (Figure 52). The 2014 production volume was 59 percent lower than peak production levels, which 

averaged 21,200 mt between 1987 and 1990. IFQ quota declined in 2014, dipping 17 percent from the last 3 

year average. The TAC for 2015 stabilized to 13,500 mt, following abundance trends. Lower recruitment 

rates are a cause of the decline in TAC from 2013-2016, and are projected to increase after 2016.64

Figure 52. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Alaska Sablefish, 2005-2014

Table 71. First Wholesale Value, Alaska Sablefish, $Millions

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$103 $114 $114 $121 $108 $120 $164 $135 $102 $99

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

 64 (Hanselman, Lunsford, & Rodgveller, 2014)

Catcher 

Vessels

Shoreside 

Processors

Domestic 

Distributors

Retail & 

Restaurants

Export 

Distributors

Wholesale 

Buyers

Direct Retail 

& Restaurants

$8,000

$10,000

$12,000

$14,000

$16,000

$18,000

$20,000

0

2,000

4,000

6,000

8,000

10,000

12,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (mt)

Value/mt

Volume (in mt) Value/mt
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 85

Sablefish production volume was similar to halibut in 2014, with first wholesale volumes between 6 and 7

thousand metric tons for both species and first wholesale values near $100 million dollars apiece. Although 

they differ greatly in appearance and have different key markets, halibut and sablefish are similar in other 

regards. Both are high-value fish, are managed under the same IFQ program, and most are harvested using 

similar gear (primarily longline). The bulk of each species is harvested before and after the summer salmon 

fishing season, even though the season typically runs from March into November. Sablefish is delivered 

either eastern cut (dressed and iced) or in the round. Unlike halibut, which is sold either fresh or frozen, 

sablefish is almost entirely sold frozen. 

The total wholesale value of sablefish was $99 million in 2014, a 24 percent decrease from the previous 4 

year average. Production volume was down 23 percent versus the previous 4 year average (Table 71). 

Price

Sablefish wholesale prices reached a record high of $8.72 per lb in 2011. Since then, mean prices declined to

$5.57 per lb in 2013 (Figure 53). Small harvest level and healthy demand have helped to prevent prices from 

dropping further and in 2014 the wholesale price was $6.70 per lb. Volume is expected to be below historical 

averages in the next few years and prices are anticipated to remain high. 

Figure 53. Alaska Wholesale and Ex-Vessel Prices per Pound, 1995-2014

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Blend Catch-accounting and At-sea and Shoreside Production Reports; ADF&G (COAR).

http://www.afsc.noaa.gov/REFM/Socioeconomics/SAFE/groundfish.php#data

Regional Sablefish Production

Sablefish is delivered by catcher vessels to shoreside processors as whole fish or H&G, eastern cut. The 

majority of sablefish is caught in the Gulf of Alaska. Sitka, Seward, and Kodiak are the state’s largest sablefish 

ports, accounting for half of the total sablefish landings in 2014 (Table 72). Freezer longliners (catcher 

processors) accounted for 6.5 percent of the IFQ harvest in 2014.

 $1.00

 $2.00

 $3.00

 $4.00

 $5.00

 $6.00

 $7.00

 $8.00

 $9.00

19951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Average Price per lb

Wholesale Price per lb Ex-vessel Price per lb
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 86

Table 72. Alaska Sablefish First Wholesale Volume and Value by Top Ports, 2014

Note: Volume in product-weight terms. Due to slight differences between data sets, total 

volume and value figures may not match other totals quoted in this report.

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Key Markets for Alaska Sablefish

Sablefish is primarily sold by the container load as a 

frozen, dressed (eastern-cut) product. Importers 

purchase containers of sablefish and then sell it to 

wholesale buyers, who in turn act as distributors or 

secondary processors for restaurants and retail 

markets.65 Japan is the primary market for Alaska 

sablefish which extends back to the 1960s when 

Japanese fishing vessels began harvesting the species 

in waters off the coast of Alaska. China (including 

Hong Kong) and the United States are the next largest 

markets, and strong demand from those countries 

have pushed prices higher in recent years.66

U.S. sablefish exports is a reasonable proxy for global 

market share, as the United States accounts for just 

under 90 percent of global supply. In 2014, Japan account for 77 percent of U.S. exports by weight (Table 73).

HS (Harmonized System) codes typically do not allow for a more comprehensive market share analysis 

outside of U.S. exports or Japanese imports. Export volume has decreased since 2013, with overall revenues 

decreasing by 15 percent.

Table 73. U.S. Sablefish Exports to Global Markets, 2014

Volume (mt) Revenue 

($millions)

Pct. Change in Volume 

from 2013

Pct. Change in Revenue 

from 2013

Japan 5,131 $59.5 -24% -16%

China/Hong Kong 595 8.5 -26% -16%

Singapore 141 2.3 3% 25%

Europe 316 4.6 13% 48%

All other 482 6.7 - -

Total 6,665 $81.6 -23% -15%

Source: NMFS Foreign Trade Data.

 65 (Reynolds, 2015)

66 (Sackton, 2015)

Volume (mt) Value 

($thousands)

Sitka/Pelican/Petersburg/Wrangell 1,689 $27,160 

Kodiak 1,105 16,527

Cook Inlet 1,054 12,694

Juneau/Yakutat 847 12,014

EEZ/Bering Sea 731 8,688

Dutch Harbor/Adak/West Aleutians 685 10,236

Other 727 10,781

Grand Total 6,839 $98,100 

Photo Courtesy of Stephanie Warpinski.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 87

Canada is the only other major sablefish exporter, producing roughly 11 percent of the global share. Canada’s 

top two export markets are Japan and the United States; however, it is likely that a portion of frozen sablefish 

imported by U.S. buyers from Canada is re-exported to Asia. 

Patagonian toothfish (Dissostichus eleginoides), also known as Chilean seabass, is the primary competitor 

with sablefish in high-end whitefish markets.67 It also features a high oil content and rich white meat. 

Japan

Japan imports more sablefish than all other countries 

combined, but its import share of large sablefish decreased in 

the last few years due to a strong dollar and increasing 

international demand. Despite the recent downward trend in 

market share, Japan’s sablefish market remains a key 

segment for the Alaska seafood industry.

The country imported approximately 7,200 mt of frozen H&G 

sablefish in 2014, valued at $96.6 million (Table 74). Total 

imports in 2014 were one-third below the 2009 level of 

10,600 mt, including a 14 percent decline between 2013 and 

2014. Total imports in 2014 were 18 percent below the 3 year 

average of 7,900 mt, including a 15 percent decline between 

2013 and 2014.

Sablefish supply, exchange rates, and availability of 

substitutes, such as mero (Patagonian toothfish), drive 

sablefish prices historically. A weaker yen and increasing demand in the United States and other export 

markets have pushed sablefish prices up in Japan (in both USD and yen). 

Table 74. Japan Frozen H&G Sablefish Imports, by Major Trade Partner, 2009-2014

Country of Origin 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Import Volume (mt)

U.S. 9,409 8,402 7,878 8,324 7,655 6,514

Canada 1,196 941 762 789 725 668

Total 10,607 9,349 8,640 9,113 8,380 7,182

Import Value ($millions)

U.S. $117.0 $123.5 $151.2 $106.8 $90.3 $87.6

Canada 15.6 13.9 14.9 11.4 9.0 8.9

Total $132.6 $137.4 $166.0 $118.2 $99.3 $96.6

Import Value/mt

Avg. Total USD/mt $9,409 $8,402 $7,878 $12,972 $11,850 $13,444

Avg. Yen/USD Exchange Rate ¥93.6 ¥87.8 ¥79.7 ¥79.8 ¥97.6 ¥105.8

Est. Total Yen/mt (¥thousands) ¥880 ¥737 ¥627 ¥1,035 ¥1,156 ¥1,423

Note: Volume is in product-weight terms.

Source: Global Trade Atlas and OANDA.

United States

Estimates for the 5 year average of annual U.S. consumption of sablefish are around 2,895 mt, though the 

domestic market for sablefish has been increasing for several reasons (Table 75). First of all, high prices for 

 67 (U.S. Departments of Commerce and State, n.d.)

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 88

Patagonian toothfish have pushed consumers toward substitutes, in particular sablefish. Another reason for 

the growing popularity of sablefish is its increased usage in Japanese restaurants and high-end restaurants. 

Lastly, a significant weakening of the yen versus the dollar has reduced demand in Japan and increased the 

supply of sablefish available for the U.S. market.68

Table 75. Estimated U.S. Sablefish Market Supply (mt), 2010-2014

Year

Est. U.S. 

Wholesale 

Production

U.S. 

Imports

U.S. 

Exports Est. U.S. Supply

2010 12,182 409 9,148 3,443

2011 12,960 833 13,088 705

2012 12,467 691 10,144 3,014

2013 11,259 268 8,646 2,881

2014 10,400 695 6,665 4,430

Five-year Average 11,854 580 9,538 2,895

Note: Production and supply figures are quoted in product-weight terms, based on frozen 

H&G, eastern cut product. 

Source: McDowell Group estimates, based on NMFS harvest and trade data. 

China and Other Asian Markets

Sablefish has recently seen increased demand in China and other large Asian markets. China is the largest 

seafood producer in the world as well as a re-processor for Alaska seafoods.69Demand for high-quality fish 

has increased due to an expanding middle class, and in recent years, lavish government parties in China and 

Hong Kong drove an increase in exports until 2013 when the Chinese government curbed expenditures.70 In 

2013, U.S. export value was highest in Hong Kong and China, with values over $7.2 million and $2.4 million, 

respectively (Figure 54). 

Figure 54. U.S. Exports of Sablefish by Top 5 Asia Countries (excluding Japan), in $Thousands, 2009-2014

Source: Sonu 2014.

 68 (Sackton, 2014)

69 (Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, 2011)

70 (Undercurrent News, 2013) $4,720 

$5,900 

$7,006 

$8,636 

$7,218 

$5,733 

$2,301 

$1,679 

$3,518 

$1,936 

$2,456 

$2,736 

$1,178 

$1,421 

$1,285 

$2,036 

$1,817 

$2,257 

$137 

$179 

$749 

$550 

$979 

$665 

$988 

$767 

$532 

$1,186 

$633 

$574 

 $-

 $1,000

 $2,000

 $3,000

 $4,000

 $5,000

 $6,000

 $7,000

 $8,000

 $9,000

 $10,000

2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($000s)

Hong Kong China Singapore Thailand South Korea

$0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 89

Global Production and Competing Supply

In 2014, the United States harvested 16,500 mt of sablefish while Canada harvested 1,773 mt. Over the last 5

years, Alaska has harvested 65 percent of the global sablefish production (Figure 55). Current harvest levels 

are lower than historical averages, which has led to higher prices. For wholesale markets, this means volume 

will remain low and prices fairly high, however there are limitations. 

A common substitute on the market, Patagonian toothfish, has a similar high oil content and rich flavor, and 

equivalent high prices. Patagonian toothfish production peaked at 41,000 mt in 2001 and harvest levels have 

been declining since. Many different countries fish for Patagonian toothfish with varying degrees of 

sustainable management. In the early 2000s, it was estimated up to half of harvests consisted of illegal, 

unreported fishing actual toothfish landings. This lead to informed consumers moving to more sustainably 

harvested species, such as sablefish.71

Sablefish farming has not developed as anticipated. There are some sablefish farming ventures in British 

Columbia, with no evident impact on wild Alaska sablefish harvest or revenues. Canada’s wild sablefish 

harvest is equivalent to that of California or Oregon, with 1,773 mt harvested in 2014.72

Figure 55. Global Supply of Sablefish (mt), 2003-2014

 

 Note: Percent share based on 5 year average.

Source: FAO Fishstats.

 71 (Catarci, 2004)

72 (Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 2015)

10% Canada 

65% Alaska

24% U.S. West Coast

 -

 5,000

 10,000

 15,000

 20,000

 25,000

 30,000

2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Alaska U.S. West Coast Canada

0

Harvest Volume (mt)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 90

Wholesale Market Profile for Pacific Halibut 

Pacific halibut73 (Hippoglossus stenolepis) is a large flatfish species found in waters of the North Pacific 

Ocean. It commands one of the highest ex-vessel prices of any species, worth $109 million in first wholesale 

value in 2014 for 6,157 mt. The fish is primarily sold to upscale retail and food service markets in North 

America. Halibut accounted for 4.5 percent of Alaska groundfish first wholesale value in 2014, and 0.6 

percent of production volume. This profile summarizes the fishery, production volume and value in Alaska, 

key markets, and global supply.

Table 76. Summary Profile of Pacific Halibut Wholesale Production, 2014 

First Wholesale Production (mt) 6,157

Pct. of Global Pacific Halibut Harvest (2013) 73%

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $109.2

Pct. Change in Value from Prior 4-yr Avg. -40%

Fishery Summary

Halibut has been harvested commercially since the early 1900s 

along the West Coast, from California to Alaska. Managed by 

the International Pacific Halibut Commission (IPHC) since 1923, 

the organization jointly manages commercial harvest of halibut 

in the United States and Canada by establishing catch limits 

based on stock assessments.

The North Pacific Fishery Management Council allocates the 

catch limits for each management area within Alaska. The 

fishery is managed under an Individual Fishing Quota (IFQ) 

system since 1995, eliminating the derby-style race-to-fish and 

increasing the season length from just a single day in 1994 to 

the current eight-month window. This management policy 

greatly impacted the fresh fish market for halibut, improving the season length of fresh supply to nearly year 

round, reducing fatalities, and improving the market power for fishermen.74

Relative to the previous decade, both participation and harvest levels have fallen significantly. Approximately 

a thousand longline vessels participated in the 2014 fishery, a 42 percent reduction compared to peak 

participation in 1995.69

Alaska fisheries accounted for 80 percent of U.S. halibut harvests between 2005 and 2014. Harvest volumes 

trended downward between 2004 and 2014, but TACs increased in 2015 (Figure 56). Approximately 7,500 mt 

of halibut were harvested from Alaska in 2014 (Table 77), a 72 percent decline from the peak harvest of 

27,500 mt in 2002 and 24 percent decline from the prior year. TACs increased 10 percent in 2015 to 8,741 

mt.

 73 Any reference to halibut in this profile refers to Pacific halibut specifically. 

74 (Thunberg & Brinson, 2012)

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 91

Table 77. Alaska Commercial Halibut Landings, in Metrics Tons, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

IPHC Regulatory Area

2C Southeast 1,973 1,040 1,146 1,298 1,459

3A East GOA 9,114 6,472 5,302 4,910 3,336

3B West GOA 4,520 3,328 2,264 1,830 1,281

4 BSAI 2,482 2,599 1,869 1,411 1,079

CDQ Harvest 893 918 656 484 356

Total Harvest 18,982 14,356 11,237 9,933 7,510

Note: Figures are in net weight terms. 

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports (RAM Division). 

Figure 56. Alaska Halibut Harvests/TACs (mt), 1950-2014

Note: Figures prior to 1980 include a small amount of U.S. commercial harvest caught in Area 2 which could not be separated. 

Figures prior to 1995 represent harvest volume while 1995-2014 data refers to TACs; however, harvest volumes have been very 

close to the annual TAC in every year since 1995. All figures are in net weight terms. 

Source: International Pacific Halibut Commission (1950-1994) and NMFS Catch Limits (1995-2014)

Product Description and Supply Chain

The largest flatfish in the sea, halibut have a mild taste with a 

firm, flaky texture. It is often breaded/fried but is also used in a 

variety of other dishes and applications. Halibut is a unique 

seafood protein, with no close substitutes. 

Halibut are sold to consumers as fillets, steaks, and fletches 

(whole skinless fillets). Halibut cheeks also fetch a premium 

price as a sweet-flavored delicacy. Halibut are in high demand, 

with limited supply being the main influence on price.

Seventy-four percent of halibut processed in Alaska was sold to 

buyers as a headed/gutted product. Skinless/boneless fillets 

were the next largest product type, accounting for 12 percent 

of 2014 production. Other product types accounted for 14 

Photo Courtesy of Garrett Evridge.

2014

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

Harvest Volume (in mt)

Alaska Halibut Harvest/TAC
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 92

percent of production volume and 9 percent of production value. More fresh halibut is sold due to the increase in 

season length as a result of the IFQ program which ended the race for fish.

Table 78. Common Halibut Products: 2014 Alaska Production Volume and Recovery Rates (Pct.)

2014 Alaska 

Production (mt)

2014 Alaska 

Production (Pct.)

Recovery Rate

Range

Head and Gutted 4,568 74% 68-80%

Dressed (gutted only) 244 4 85-92

Fillet (no skin or ribs) 718 12 34-44

Other Fillets 132 2 34-56

Cheeks 38 1 N/A

Other Products 459 7 N/A

Source: ADF&G (COAR) and Alaska Sea Grant (Crapo, Paust, & Babbit, 1993).

Supply Chain

Figure 57 illustrates the halibut supply chain, from harvesters to consumers. Alaska halibut is harvested by 

relatively small boats (under 60 ft.) with fixed (hook-and-line) gear. The fish are bled and gutted on board and 

delivered to shoreside processing plants. Halibut are then headed or processed into fillets. Freezer longliners 

(catcher processors) also participate in the halibut IFQ fishery. The majority of halibut is sold as a fresh or 

frozen product to seafood distributors. Distribution companies often cut headed/gutted halibut into fillets or 

steaks and sell product in relatively small lots to grocery chains and restaurants in their local area. 

Some grocery chains maintain their own distribution network of trucks and warehouses. These chains are 

more likely to purchase halibut directly from Alaska processors. A relatively small number of grocery chains 

purchase headed/gutted halibut and cut the fish into portions at their stores, but most purchase portions 

from distributors or directly from Alaska processors. The vast majority of product sold to restaurants and 

other foodservice companies goes through distributors.

Figure 57. Alaska Halibut Supply Chain

Catcher 

Vessels

Shoreside 

Processors

Domestic Distributors

Grocery & 

Foodservice

Export 

Distributors
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 93

Finally, a relatively small amount of halibut is sold directly to retail customers by fishermen, acting as direct 

marketers. Halibut lends itself well to direct marketing because it is a high value product from a quota-based 

fishery, which is already being dressed at-sea. Enterprising fishermen have the time and incentive to work 

with directly with customers – primarily in the lower 48 states – to sell small lots of halibut, often in boxes of 

10, 25, or 50 lb. Although direct sales eliminate part of the traditional supply chain, shipping costs are often 

much higher than product sold in bulk. 

Production Volume and Value

First Wholesale Volume and Value

Production volume peaked in the late 1980s at 23,500 mt in Alaska, nearly quadruple the 2014 production 

volume of 6,160 mt (Figure 58). The state’s halibut wholesale production volume has averaged 16,845 mt 

since the IFQ program began in 1995, however, harvests declined significantly from 2005 through 2014. The 

2014 wholesale production volume was 73 percent lower than peak production levels, which averaged 

22,610 mt between 1986 and 1989. 

Figure 58. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Pacific Halibut in Alaska, 1985-2014

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

First Wholesale Price

Halibut is a high-value fish, typically worth $14,000 to $18,000 per metric ton. Prices across all segments of 

the supply chain are primarily tied to commercial supply, as the fish has few substitutes. Halibut prices have 

steadily increased over the past decade due to declining harvest volumes. General economic conditions also 

play a role in halibut demand.

The average first wholesale price per pound for halibut in 2014 was $8.05/lb., up 10 percent from the 

previous 3 year average price of $7.28/lb (Figure 59). Total first wholesale revenue for halibut was $109 

million in 2014 – 40 percent below the previous 4 year average of $181 million. Alaska processors produced

6,157 mt of halibut products in 2014 – 47 percent below the previous 4 year average of 11,599 mt. Higher 

prices somewhat offset lower harvest volumes in 2014; however, 2014 registered the lowest first wholesale 

value since 1998 (in nominal terms). The overall size-at-age has decreased for halibut in the last few years as 

well, due to slower growth rates.75 Smaller halibut yield less product and incur higher processing and 

 75 (Keith, Kong, Sadorus, Stewart, & Williams, 2014)

$0

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$250,000

 -

 5,000

 10,000

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198519861987198819891990199119921993199419951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Revenue (in $000s)

Volume (in mt)

Wholesale Volume Wholesale Revenue

0
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 94

handling costs. As a result, halibut pricing for H&G product is often stratified by fish size at an ex-vessel and 

first wholesale level.

Figure 59. Alaska Halibut First Wholesale and Ex-Vessel Price per Pound, 1995-2014

Source: ADF&G (COAR). 

Regional Halibut Production

Table 79. Alaska Halibut First Wholesale Volume and Value by Top Ports/Regions, 2014

Volume (mt) Value 

($thousands) Pct. of Value

Cook Inlet (Seward to Anchorage) 1,779 $32,706 30%

Kodiak 1,109 20,757 19

Petersburg/Wrangell 844 14,188 13

Northern Southeast (Juneau to Yakutat) 761 14,362 13

Sitka/Pelican/Ketchikan/Craig 631 11,864 11

Other 1,033 15,365 14

Total 6,157 $109,241 -

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Kodiak was Alaska’s top halibut port in 2014, accounting for 19 percent of total first wholesale value for 

Alaska. Processors in Cook Inlet, primarily Homer and Seward, buy significant volumes of halibut. Cook Inlet 

ports from Anchorage to Seward produced 1,779 mt of halibut products worth $32.7 million – about 30 

percent of the statewide production value. The top five halibut ports/regions are shown in Table 79. In most 

cases ports had to be combined to maintain processors’ confidentiality.

Key Markets for Pacific Halibut

Halibut is sold primarily in North American restaurants and grocery stores. In upscale restaurants, it is often 

served unbreaded and paired with various sauces. Many restaurants in the Pacific Northwest and other North 

American casual seafood eateries feature fried halibut bits. Grocery stores and specialty seafood shops 

typically sell halibut as fresh (or refreshed) portions in a fillet or steak format, typically offering portions of 5 

to 10 oz. Estimating the relative volume of production sold into grocery or foodservice segments is not 

possible due to a lack of data, but each segment accounts for a significant share of wholesale purchases, 

according to sales representatives of Alaska processors. 

$0.00

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$8.00

19951996199719981999200020012002200320042005200620072008200920102011201220132014

Ex-Vessel Price per lb Wholesale Price per lb
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 95

Halibut fillets/steaks account for a majority of the fish’s retail value, but the cheeks of larger halibut are also 

considered a valuable delicacy. Some processors find industrial markets for halibut heads and frames, but 

most of these excess fish parts are ground and discharged as waste.

North America

The vast majority of Alaska halibut production is sold into North American markets. The United States is the 

largest market - typically consuming between 80 and 90 percent of total production. Canada is the secondlargest market for Alaska halibut, with annual exports averaging 1,390 mt and $12.1 million between 2011 

and 2013.76 A portion of halibut exported to Canada may be subsequently re-exported to the United States

by Canadian distributors. It is not possible to assess whether halibut imported into the United States from 

Canada was caught in Alaska or Canada. Regardless, Canada consumes a significant amount of halibut on a 

per capita and total basis relative to other (non-U.S.) markets. 

Upscale grocery chains - such as Whole Foods - account for a disproportionally larger share of sales. Grocery 

sales of halibut are heaviest between late March through July. Most halibut sold “on special” in grocery 

stores is priced between $17 and $20 per pound, whereas normal retail pricing on halibut typically exceeds 

$20 per pound. Selling fillet and steak portions in 5 to 10 oz increments allows retailers to keep unit prices 

closer to the $10 range. Prices for halibut served at restaurants vary significantly, depending on the 

establishment and the portion size. Most full-service restaurants offer breaded/fried halibut pieces starting 

at $12 per piece, while more advanced preparations of 5 to 10 oz portions typically start around $30. 

Figure 60 illustrates the trend of declining supply and increasing wholesale prices for halibut. There is a 

strong relationship over time; however, the data does suggest there is a maximum price that wholesale 

buyers are willing pay. Prices increased sharply from 2009, coming out of the global recession, through 2011. 

Despite a recovering economy and declining halibut supplies, wholesale prices remained relatively static, 

ranging from $7.50 to $8.50 per pound. These data indicate there is price resistance above $8.50 per pound. 

Figure 60. North American Halibut Supply and Wholesale Price, 2005-2015

Note: Wholesale price reflects average monthly fresh price of 20-40 lb. halibut, boxed, FOB Seattle. 2015 price data 

reflects average wholesale price through mid-July. 

Source: IPHC (2014) and Urner Barry. 

The U.S. market typically consumes 80 to 90 percent of U.S. halibut production (Table 80). U.S. market share 

has been steady, outside of 2011, when the U.S. dollar was generally weaker relative to the Canadian dollar. 

 76 (Fisheries and Oceans Canada, 2013)

$2.00

$3.00

$4.00

$5.00

$6.00

$7.00

$8.00

$9.00

$10.00

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

80

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015

Avg. Wholesale Price/lb.

Million lb. (Net Weight)

Commercial Halibut TAC (U.S. & Canada) Average Wholesale Fresh Price/lb.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 96

It is also possible that Canadian distributors held more halibut product as inventory in 2011. Total U.S. halibut 

supply declined 45 percent between 2010 and 2014, due to lower harvest volumes. As halibut harvests have 

declined, trade data suggests that the U.S. market is likely absorbing virtually all U.S. production and perhaps 

some Canadian production as well. 

Table 80. Estimated U.S. Halibut Market Supply (mt), 2010-2014

Year

Est. U.S. 

Wholesale 

Production

U.S. Imports U.S. Exports Est. U.S. Supply U.S. Pct. Of 

Total Supply

2010 19,192 4,976 9,362 14,806 77%

2011 14,563 4,359 9,460 9,463 65%

2012 11,537 4,172 5,392 10,318 89%

2013 10,194 4,868 4,823 10,239 100%

2014 7,860 4,463 4,149 8,174 104%

Five-year Average 12,669 4,568 6,637 10,600 87%

Note: All volume figures have been converted to a net weight (H&G) basis for comparability purposes. A relatively small amount of 

other flatfish (Atlantic halibut or Greenland turbot) may be included in import/export figures. 

Source: NMFS (OST), NMFS Foreign Trade Data, and McDowell Group estimates.

Outside of North America, halibut are occasionally exported to upscale seafood buyers in Europe and 

Southeast Asia who are expected to feature prominent seafood from around the world. However, these are 

small, niche markets collectively buying about 1 percent of total Alaska halibut production. 

Global Production and Competing Supply

In 2014, the United States harvested 8,016 mt of Pacific halibut while Canada harvested 2,620 mt, for a total 

production of 10,627 mt (in net weight terms). Over the last 5 years, Alaska harvested 79 percent of global 

Pacific halibut production (Figure 61). Current harvest levels for each major production area are much lower 

Figure 61. Global Supply of Pacific Halibut (mt), 1950-2013

Note: Figures have been converted to net weight terms using a 75 percent conversion factor. Percent share of harvest based on most recent 

5 year average.

Sources: Alaska (1950-1994: IPHC (2014), 1995-2014 NMFS OST), U.S. West Coast (NMFS OST), and Canada (1950-2013: FAO, 2014: IPHC 

(2014)). 

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

40,000

195019521954195619581960196219641966196819701972197419761978198019821984198619881990199219941996199820002002200420062008201020122014

Metric Tons

Alaska U.S. West Coast Canada

5-Year Harvest Avg.

79% Alaska

3% U.S. West Coast

18% Canada
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 97

than historical averages, which has led to higher prices. Alaska’s 2014 was 62 percent below its 2004-2013 

average, while Canada and the U.S. West Coast posted harvests 33 percent and 27 percent below their prior 

10-year average, respectively. 

In terms of competing species, Pacific halibut does not have much competition due to its unique taste and 

texture. However, Atlantic halibut have a similar taste profile and can be generically marketed as halibut, 

thus obtaining a premium price. Atlantic halibut tend to be smaller, but with decreasing size-at-age trends for 

Pacific halibut the two species have a greater volume of similarly sized fillets.

Historically Atlantic halibut harvests have been relatively small compared to Pacific halibut. However, with 

declining Pacific halibut harvests the Atlantic species now accounts for a larger share of total halibut production. 

Atlantic halibut made up 25 percent of total halibut production in 2013, up from 10 percent in 2004 (Figure 62). 

Figure 62. Pacific and Atlantic Halibut Harvest Volume (mt), 2004-2013

Note: Figures in round weight.

Source: FAO.

In addition to wild capture fisheries, there have been halibut aquaculture ventures in Europe raising Atlantic 

halibut as an alternative to wild halibut. Due to slow maturity rates and other technical difficulties associated 

with farming halibut, aquaculture production remains relatively inconsequential. 

0

10,000

20,000

30,000

40,000

50,000

60,000

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Metric Tons

Pacific Halibut Atlantic Halibut
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 98

Wholesale Market Profile for Ancillary Products

Investments in the processing infrastructure to produce fish meal, fish oil, and other ancillary products were 

largely completed in parallel with growth of the domestic pollock and other groundfish fisheries in the 1990s. 

Eighty-two percent of Alaska ancillary products are derived from the state’s vast pollock fishery. Roughly 10 

percent of the value of pollock products produced in Alaska are derived from ancillary products. 

Despite the substantial size of Alaska’s pollock and groundfish fisheries, the state is a small player in the 

global market for fish meal and fish oil, which are primarily for aquaculture feed. Though currently small in 

comparison, a growing market exists for nutritional supplements for human consumption, such as fish oil 

capsules. There are also sizable markets in Asia for niche products like stomachs, milt, collars, and heads from 

cod, pollock, and other species. 

Table 81. Summary Profile of Ancillary Products Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014

Value and Volume Key Products Fish Meal Fish Oil Other

First Wholesale Production (mt) 126,180 Pct. of Value 65% 20% 15%

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $188.4 Key Meal Markets Japan China Korea

Pct. of Alaska Groundfish Value 7.7% Pct. of 1st Sales 7% 66% 27%

Pct. Increase in Value since 2005 88.2% YOY Change 15% 1% 19%

Total Production of Alaska Ancillary Products

Alaska groundfish are primarily harvested in the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska using trawl gear. Japanese and 

other foreign fishermen dominated this fishery until the 200-mile EEZ was established by the MagnusonStevens Act of 1977, eliminating foreign fishing vessels in U.S. waters. Commercial fishing efforts remained a 

joint venture with Japanese vessels until the late 1980s when the fishing fleet became entirely U.S. based. 

Fishing efforts between 1977 and 1987 were minimal, but quickly ramped up in the late 1980s and early 

1990s. Since 1990, an average of 580,400 mt of pollock were harvested each year — a number that has 

stayed relatively stable. 

Roughly 5 percent of Alaska groundfish harvests, by volume, end up as marketable ancillary products. 

Ancillary product production levels in 2014 roughly match those from 2005, but increases in prices have led 

to a 88 percent increase in total first wholesale value over that time period (Figure 63 and Table 82). 

The numbers presented in this analysis provide best estimates for production levels of various Alaska 

groundfish ancillary products. However, it should be noted that available first wholesale data apply only to 

ancillary products produced by primary processors in Alaska and does not include any production by 

subsequent processors. Secondary production of ancillary products is likely to occur when groundfish are sold 

in a minimally processed state such frozen headed and gutted (H&G) product to reprocessing markets. For 

Alaska groundfish, the predominant reprocessing markets are in Asia but these markets also exist 

domestically. For example, the major processors on Kodiak Island jointly own a fish meal plant, which is not 

considered a primary processor and does not report first wholesale production data to the Alaska 

Department of Fish & Game. In the case of Kodiak’s fish meal plant, another data source was available (NOAA 

Office of Science and Technology) and the fish meal production data presented in this report does include 

secondary production from the Kodiak plant. Other than the fish meal produced at the Kodiak plant, no other 

production from secondary processors is included in the production estimates presented here. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 99

Figure 63. First Wholesale Volume and Value of Ancillary Products from Alaska Groundfish, 2005-2014

Table 82. First Wholesale Value and Ancillary Products as Percent of Total Wholesale Value, 2005-2014

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($millions) $100.1 $128.1 $117.7 $107.0 $97.5 $135.6 $178.0 $175.6 $180.3 $188.4

Pct. Ancillary Products 4.7% 5.7% 5.1% 4.4% 5.2% 6.4% 6.6% 6.5% 7.8% 7.7%

Source: ADF&G (COAR) and NMFS (OST).

Key Species

Eighty-two percent of the total value of Alaska’s ancillary products in 2014 ($188.4 million) was derived from 

Alaska pollock and 14 percent from Pacific cod. The remaining 4 percent was composed of a mixture of 

various flatfish and other groundfish species, such as flounder, rockfish, sablefish, Atka mackerel, shark, sole, 

and squid (Figure 64). 

For comparison, ancillary products derived from Alaska salmon totaled $13.7 million in 2014. 

Figure 64. Alaska Ancillary Product Wholesale Production Value, by Key Species, 2005-2014

$0

$200

$400

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0

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40,000

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2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value/mt

Volume (in mt)

Volume (mt) Value/mt

Pollock

82%

Flatfish

2%

Pacific 

Cod 14%

Other Groundfish 2%

Value 

$188.4 million

Pollock

84%

Flatfish

1%

Pacific Cod 13% Other Groundfish 2%

Volume 

126,178 mt

Source: ADF&G (COAR) and NMFS (OST).
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 100

Figure 65. Alaska Ancillary Product First Wholesale Value and Volume, by Key Groundfish Species, 2014

Notes: Flatfish includes various species of flounder, sole and turbot.

Source: ADF&G (COAR) and NMFS (OST).

Key Products Analysis

Fish meal is the dominant ancillary product in Alaska’s groundfish fisheries, accounting for 70 percent of the 

value of all ancillary products produced in 2014. Fish oil is a clear second, at 17 percent, followed by collars, 

chins, & cheeks; bones and heads; milt; and internal organs (Figures 66 and 67). The composition of product 

types has stayed fairly steady over the last decade, with the exception of internal organs which accounted for 

15 percent of the total value of ancillary products in 2012, but only 1 percent in 2014. Fish meal and fish oil, 

which are described in more detail below, have increased substantially in value, primarily due to growth of 

the aquaculture industry.

Figure 66. Alaska Groundfish Ancillary Product First Wholesale Value, by Product Type, 2005-2014

Source: ADF&G (COAR) and NMFS (OST). 

$0

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2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value (in $millions)

Other Groundfish Species Pacific Cod Pollock

$0

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2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($ millions)

Bones and Heads Collars Chins Cheeks Fish Meal Fish Oil Stomachs Milt
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 101

Figure 67. Alaska Ancillary Product First Wholesale Value and Volume, by Product Type, 2014

Source: ADF&G (COAR) and NMFS (OST).

Fish Meal

Alaska fish meal is a shelf-stable product produced by cooking, 

pressing, drying, and milling fish trimmings, such as heads, viscera, 

frames, and skins. As opposed to most fish meal produced globally, 

Alaska fish meal is produced from fish residues rather than whole 

fish. Fish meal and oil production in Alaska occurs at shore-based 

processors as well as onboard catcher-processors. 

According to IFFO (The Marine Ingredients Organization), fish meal 

typically consists of between 60-70 percent protein, 10-20 percent 

ash, and 5-12 percent fat.77 Fish meal from Alaska groundfish has 

been measured at 70 percent protein, 8 percent ash (mostly calcium 

and phosphorous), 17 percent fat, and 6 percent moisture.78

In 2012, it was estimated that 68 percent of global uses of fish meal 

were attributable to aquaculture, followed by feed for chickens (23 

percent) and pigs (7 percent).79 As of 2009, of the fishmeal used in aquaculture, 27 percent went to feed 

salmon and trout, 26 percent to crustaceans, 26 percent to various species of marine fish, 6 percent to 

tilapia, 5 percent to eels, 4 percent to cyprinids, and 6 percent to other species.80 Other feeds used in 

aquaculture include plant-based meals, starches, and oils; direct application of fish and fish wastes; algae 

grown for consumption by herbivorous species; and various other feed types.

Production 

In 2014, Alaska produced 76,617 mt of fish meal, over 92 percent of which was derived from Alaska pollock. 

From 2005 to 2014, Alaska fish meal production from groundfish declined by roughly 12 percent, though 

 77 (IFFO, 2015)

78 (Sheperd, 2014)

79 (Tacon, 2015)

80 (IFFO, 2015)

Photo Courtesy of Unisea. 

Bones and Heads

4%

Collars Chins 

Cheeks

6%

Fish Meal

69%

Stomachs

1%

Milt

3%

Fish Oil

17%

Value: 

$188.4 million

Bones and Heads

8%

Collars 

Chins 

Cheeks

5%

Fish Meal

61%

Stomachs

1%

Milt

3%

Fish Oil

22%

Volume

126,178 mt
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 102

increasing prices almost tripled the value of fish meal produced in Alaska over that time period, to $130.5 

million in 2014 (Figure 68 and Table 83). 

Approximately 60 percent of fish meal production occurred at shoreside processors in 2014, with the 

remaining occurring at sea. Despite increased prices for fish meal, few of the catcher-processors without 

fishmeal plants have added them in recent years. Adding a fish meal plant generally requires splitting a ship 

in half and adding a section to the middle to find space for the necessary equipment. 

Figure 68. Alaska Fish Meal Production and Value, 2005-2014

Table 83. Alaska Groundfish Fish Meal First Wholesale Value, in $Millions, 2005-2014

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$63.0 $81.8 $75.7 $61.9 $57.2 $84.7 $105.5 $98.4 $124.6 $130.5

Source: ADF&G (COAR) and NMFS (OST).

Table 84. First Wholesale Value per Metric Ton of Alaska Fish Meal Products, by Species, 2014

Value ($/mt)

Pollock $1,715

Pacific Cod $1,312

Other Groundfish Species $2,023

Total Groundfish Meal $1,704

Salmon Fish Meal $1,559

Salmon Fish Meal Production (mt) 4,108

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Market Analysis

In 2014, 87 percent of Alaska fish meal was exported to Asia for use in aquaculture feed. In particular Alaska 

fish meal is used in eel and turtle farming, due to unique properties that separate it from other fish meals, 

such as the redfish meals produced by the anchovy fisheries off the coast of South America. Unique 

properties of Alaska whitefish meal include the ability to mix with other ingredients to form a particularly 

sticky, cohesive dough – the preferred feeding method for eels. 

$0

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0

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2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value/mt

Volume (mt)

Volume (in mt) Value/mt
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 103

China – which typically receives close to 70 percent of Alaska fish meal exports (Figure 69) – accounted for 60 

percent of global aquaculture production in 2012.81 Exports to China have decreased slightly in recent years 

to 63 percent, due in part to increasingly strict testing requirements of imports. Exports to China in 2015 are 

expected to further decline due to higher prices as a result of a stronger U.S. dollar (Table 85).

In 2014, 30 percent of Alaska fish meal exports went to South Korea, a proportion that has increased since 

2004 when 20 percent went to the country. Japan is the third largest importer of Alaska fish meal, at 7 

percent in 2014 – down from 15 percent in 2004. Some of these imports are used domestically in South 

Korea and Japan but the majority are shipped on to China and other countries in Asia. 

Figure 69. Exports of Alaska Fish Meal, 2010-2014

Table 85. Exports of Alaska Fish Meal, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Export Volume (mt) 48,846 65,092 67,055 63,251 67,305

Export Value ($thousands) $65,047 $85,020 $90,586 $98,767 $99,747

Average Export Value per Metric Ton ($US) $1,332 $1,306 $1,351 $1,562 $1,482

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database.

In 2014, the United States imported 53,367 mt of fish meal worth $87.2 million, primarily from Mexico and 

Chile. These imports generally enter the United States through ports in the Southeast and Southwest, as well 

as ports along the Mississippi River, and are destined for use in pig and chicken farming, as well as other 

agricultural uses.82 It is likely that most of the domestic sales of Alaska groundfish meal end up in the U.S.

agriculture market. 

Global Production and Competing Supply Analysis

Globally, an estimated 4.3 million metric tons of fish meal was produced in 2014.83 Peru and Chile accounted 

for 31 percent of global production, primarily from vast anchovy fisheries directed at the fish meal and fish oil 

markets. As of 2012, roughly 10 percent of global wild capture fish production was directed toward fish meal 

and fish oil, a percentage that has been declining as more fish production is directed toward human 

 81 (Tacon, 2015)

82 NOAA Foreign Trade data.

83 (Indexmundi, 2015)

China

66.4%

Japan

6.7%

South 

Korea

26.6%

Vietnam

0.3%

Export Share by Volume

$0

$20,000

$40,000

$60,000

$80,000

$100,000

$120,000

0

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Export Value ($000s)

Export Volume (mt) Export Value ($000s)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 104

consumption.84 Despite this trend, global fish meal production levels remain steady due to strong prices and 

increased production of fish meal from previously discarded fish residues. As of 2012, 35 percent of global 

fish meal production was derived from fish residues as opposed to whole fish processed specifically for fish 

meal and fish oil.

The United States is a small player in the global fish meal market, producing 345,000 mt in 2014 or roughly 8 

percent of global production.85 Alaska’s groundfish meal production in 2014 accounted for roughly 1.3 

percent of global production. The largest proportion of U.S. fish meal and fish oil production comes from 

menhaden caught in the Gulf of Mexico and Western Atlantic.

Fish meal prices have remained high due to its importance in farmed fish and animal diets and the rapid 

growth of the aquaculture industry. While the aquaculture industry has increased its use of plant-based feeds 

in recent years, fish meal plays an important role as a nutritious and healthy feed, as well as for imparting 

flavor during the last stage of fish culture. Generally, fish meal is traded at 3-4 times the price of its major 

substitute, soymeal. 

Fish Oil

Almost all fish oil produced from Alaska groundfish is derived from pollock (98 percent in 2014), and is 

generally produced as a part of the process that leads to fish meal production. 

The process involves cooking and pressing fish residues (leftover waste streams) to remove the liquid phase, 

which is spun and processed to remove any remaining solids and separate the oil and water. The solid phase 

left behind contains up to 10 percent oil and is made into fish meal or, in the case of catcher-processors 

without fish meal plants, ground and dumped overboard. 

The majority of the fish oil produced from Alaska groundfish could be termed crude fish oil. Further 

refinement is necessary to produce a product that is fit for human consumption, including heat, sterilization, 

and purification steps as well as the addition of antioxidants to protect the oil from degradation. In addition, 

processes to concentrate and refine the oil can be employed to increase the omega-3 fatty acid percentage, 

which starts at roughly 28 percent in Alaska groundfish oil and is increased to up to 80 percent or more for 

pharmaceutical fish oil products.86

Some producers in Alaska are producing even higher quality fish oils, using processing equipment and 

techniques dedicated to the human nutritional supplement market, including Trident Seafoods (from salmon 

heads and pollock livers) and Bering Select (from cod livers, starting in 2015). These advanced processes 

involve increased attention to the quality of raw materials, food-grade sanitation in the processing line, and 

special separation and preservation techniques designed to produce a higher quality product. The end 

product is an oil with its natural triglycerides intact. 

Production

Approximately 28,500 mt of fish oil, worth $32 million, was produced from Alaska groundfish in 2014 — a 

271 percent increase in value over 2005 (Figure 70 and Table 86).87 The dramatic rise in total first wholesale 

value for Alaska groundfish is a result of increased production as well as increased prices, which rose from an 

average of $436/mt in 2004 to $1,130/mt in 2014.

Shoreside processors produced 58 percent of the groundfish oil produced in Alaska in 2014. The percentage 

of fish oil produced at-sea has increased from 9 percent in 2004 (totaling 1,800 mt) to 42 percent in 2014 

 84 (FAO, 2014)

85 (Liddel and Lowther, 2014)

86 Interview with domestic seafood product manufacturer.

87 For reference, 943 mt of fish oil was produced from salmon in Alaska in 2014.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 105

(roughly 12,000 mt). The majority of this change occurred from 2008 through 2010 when a number of at-sea 

catcher-processors added fish oil plants to their processing lines. 

Figure 70. First Wholesale Value and Volume of Alaska Groundfish Fish Oil Production, 2005-2014

Table 86. Total First Wholesale Value of Alaska Groundfish Oil Production, in $Millions, 2005-2014

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$8.7 $14.4 $12.4 $15.7 $13.3 $18.8 $24.6 $23.0 $29.5 $32.3 

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Market Analysis

In 2010, the latest year for which data are available, roughly 70 percent of global fish oil was consumed by 

aquaculture, with direct human consumption (25 percent) and other uses (5 percent) accounting for the 

remainder.88 Since 2010, the percentage sold for direct human consumption has grown as public 

appreciation for the health benefits of fish oil has increased. 

Roughly 41 percent (11,800 mt) of Alaska groundfish oil production was sold domestically in 2014. According 

to industry representatives, these sales went to the human nutritional supplement market.89

The remaining portion of Alaska’s groundfish oil production was exported in 2014 (16,790 mt), which is 

attributable to aquaculture feeds. Fish oil is widely used in aquaculture, especially for salmon and trout 

farming: in 2010, it was estimated that 69 percent of global fish oil use by aquaculture was used in salmon 

and trout farming operations, followed by 16 percent for farming of other sea fish, and 5 percent or less for 

crustaceans, eels, tilapia, and other freshwater fish. 

Over the last 5 years (2010-2014), 46 percent of fish oil produced was sent to Asian markets, followed by 40 

percent to Canada (Figure 71). The Canadian sales can be assumed to feed salmon farms, whereas major uses 

in Asia include other sea fish (for example, yellowtail tuna raised in pens off the coast of Japan and other 

places), marine shrimps, eels, and other species. 

 88 (Tacon, 2015)

89 Interview with domestic seafood product manufacturer.

$0

$200

$400

$600

$800

$1,000

$1,200

$1,400

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

35,000

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value/mt

Volume (mt)

Volume (in mt) Value/mt
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 106

Figure 71. Exports of Alaska Fish Oil, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Export Volume (mt) 11,340 9,670 10,459 12,016 16,790

Export Value ($thousands) $13,360 $14,785 $19,327 $22,826 $25,223

Average Export Value per Metric Ton ($US) $1,178 $1,529 $1,848 $1,900 $1,502

Notes: Pie chart represents portions by volume exported to each country or region. Europe includes exports to Denmark, Finland, 

Germany, Iceland, and Norway. Central and South America includes exports to Chile, Peru, and Mexico. South Asia includes exports to 

Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia. 

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database.

Global Production and Competing Supply Analysis

In 2012, the most recent year for which data were available, 902,000 mt of fish oil was produced globally. 

Roughly 40 percent resulted from production in Chile and Peru (mostly from anchovies), followed by 15 

percent from Scandinavia, 7 percent from the United States, 6 percent from Japan, and 35 percent from 

various other countries.90 Globally, Alaska is a small player in the global fish oil market, accounting for 

roughly 3 percent of global production. 

While global fish oil production levels are relatively stable, they are subject to considerable fluctuation due to 

the impacts of El Niño cycles on Peruvian and Chilean anchovy fisheries. 

The major global market for fish oil is the aquaculture industry, especially salmon farming. While the industry 

continues to grow substantially, the high price of fish oil has led to increasing substitution, primarily with 

rapeseed oil. Research suggests that while fish oil is very important to fish nutrition, the minimum 

requirements can be met by small amounts of fish oil, such as the 5+ percent generally present in fish meal.

The second largest market for fish oil is the nutraceutical market, which grew considerably in the last decade. 

Growth in the nutraceutical market is expected to drive increasing global demand for fish oil, which is a 

limited resource and the only major current source of essential omega-3 fatty acids.91

 90 (Sheperd, 2014)

91 (Sheperd, 2014)

Canada

40%

Central and 

South ...

South 

Korea

15%

China

14%

South 

Asia

5%

Japan

12%

Europe

6%

Export Share by Volume

$0

$5,000

$10,000

$15,000

$20,000

$25,000

$30,000

0

5,000

10,000

15,000

20,000

25,000

30,000

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Export Volume (mt) Export Value ($000s)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 107

Other Groundfish Ancillary Products

A variety of other ancillary products are produced from Alaska 

groundfish, including heads, bellies, collars, milt, stomachs, 

bone meal, skins, and collagen, among other products. In 2014, 

70 percent of the value of these other ancillary products was 

derived from Pacific cod, followed by pollock (15 percent), 

halibut, sablefish, flatfish, and other species. 

In 2014, 20,974 mt of these other ancillary products were 

produced from Alaska groundfish, for a total value of $25.5 

million (Figure 72 and Table 87). Production levels and revenue 

from these products fluctuate with the total harvest of cod and 

pollock, and other factors.

Figure 72. First Wholesale Value of Other Ancillary Products from Alaska Groundfish, 2005-2014

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Table 87. First Wholesale Value of Select Ancillary Products, in $Millions, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Belly Flaps $5.1 $5.7 $6.0 $6.6 $5.5

Bones 0.7 2.5 1.5 1.9 1.9

Cheeks and Chins 1.0 1.4 1.1 1.0 1.0

Heads 6.3 8.6 7.3 3.5 4.7

Milt 6.3 12.7 11.0 7.6 5.7

Collars 3.0 6.4 3.1 2.3 4.1

Stomachs (internal organs) 9.6 10.6 24.2 3.4 2.5

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Many of these products are produced by vessels in the freezer pot and longline cod fleets, where gear types 

lead to high quality fish coming on board and smaller volumes allow for processing targeted at specialty 

markets.

The primary markets for these products are Japan, South Korea, and China. According to domestic seafood 

company wholesale representatives interviewed, cod heads, bellies, and collars are generally sold to South 

Photo Courtesy of Clipper Seafoods.

$0

$10

$20

$30

$40

$50

$60

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($millions)

Belly Flaps Bones Cheeks and Chins Heads Milt Collars Stomachs (internal organs)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 108

Korea for soups and other uses. Markets dominated by the Japanese include cod milt and cod stomachs, 

though some of these products are also sold in Eastern Europe. 

As Alaska processors continue to innovate, it is expected that additional ancillary products will be produced, 

especially ones targeted at the nutraceutical and beauty markets, as has been seen in other parts of the 

world. For example, Westward Seafoods recently began marketing a nutritional supplement called Alyeska 

Alaskan Hydrolyzed Fish Collagen, which is manufactured primarily from pollock skins. 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 109

Wholesale Market Profile for Snow Crab

Snow crab, including both Chionoecetes bairdi and Chionoecetes opilio species, are harvested primarily in

federally-managed fisheries in the Bering Sea, though smaller state-managed bairdi fisheries exist around

Kodiak and Southeast Alaska. Snow crab is the most valuable and most abundant of all commercial crab 

species in Alaska, with 56.8 million lb harvested worth $233.3 million in first wholesale value in 2014

(combined harvest and first wholesale value of opilio and bairdi). 

Table 88. Summary Profile of Alaska Snow Crab Wholesale Production and Markets 

Value and Volume (CY2014) Species Harvested 

(2014/2015 Season) Opilio Bairdi

First Wholesale Production (millions lb.) 44.1 Pct. of Volume 82% 18%

Pct. of Global Snow Crab Harvest (CY2013) 15% Processing Regions

(CY2014)

Bering 

Sea

Dutch 

Harbor Other

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $233.3 Pct. of Processed 

Volume 47% 41% 12%

Pct. Change in Value from Prior 4-yr Avg. 8% Key Markets: U.S., Japan, China (mostly reprocessing)

Pct. of Alaska Crab Value 62% Competing Species: Canadian and Russian snow crab

Sources: ADF&G (COAR) and McDowell Group estimates.

Fishery Summary

Snow crab are harvested with pots at 

depths typically ranging from 240 feet to 

360 feet. These steel cages (typically 

7’x7’x3’) are baited with Pacific cod, 

herring, or salmon, and placed on the 

ocean floor for 24 hours or longer. A line 

runs from the pot to a buoy floating at the 

ocean surface, allowing for retrieval by a

fishing vessel. 

Each year, the total allowable catch (TAC) 

of snow crab is set by the National Marine 

Fisheries Service (NMFS) and the Alaska 

Department of Fish & Game (ADF&G) 

through the North Pacific Fishery 

Management Council (NPFMC). Included in 

these TACs is a portion of the annual quota 

allocated to Community Development 

Quota (CDQ) groups.

Once the annual TACs have been 

established, crab vessels traditionally focus on king crab when the season opens on October 15th until the 

harvest is complete, typically sometime in November. Following the king crab harvest, fisherman will either 

take a break or fish cod before transitioning to snow crab harvest, usually after the first of the year. King crab 

and snow crab are harvested with the same pots after modifications are made which compensate for the size 

difference between king and snow crab. 

Opilio versus Bairdi versus Tanner versus Queen crab?

One confusing aspect to snow crab are the different names used to 

describe the crab by fishermen, fishery managers, and marketers. The 

following descriptions and background information may help:

• Snow crab is the most common market term, and can apply to 

any of the seven crab species in the Chionecetes genus. 

• In Alaska, the names Tanner and bairdi are typically used 

interchangeably while snow crab refers only to opilio. 

• Bairdi crab are typically larger and less abundant, but with a 

wider distribution than opilio crab in Alaska. 

• Opilio account for the vast majority of global snow crab 

production. Canada is the largest producer where the species is 

also known as Queen crab.

Where possible, opilio and bairdi are differentiated in this report. 

References to snow crab include both species (opilio and bairdi). 
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 110

In 2006, federal snow crab fisheries in the Bering 

Sea were rationalized with allocations based 

upon historical harvests. Previous to this 

transition, season lengths were compressed into 

a short period of competitive fishing which 

compromised both safety and product quality as 

fisherman had to fish regardless of weather and 

processors were often overwhelmed by high 

volumes landed over very short periods.

Commercial harvest of Alaska crab was 

pioneered by Japanese and Russian fleets using 

tangle nets starting in the 1930s. Domestic 

harvest began in the late 1940s, and by the early 

1960s U.S. fishermen dominated the fishery.92 Around the same time, the use of trawl and tangle nets for 

harvesting crab were outlawed and only males meeting a size requirement could be retained. With the 

passing of the 1976 Magnuson-Stevenson Act, foreign vessels were prevented from harvesting Alaska crab. 

The domestic fleet focused mainly on king crab harvest in these early years, with significant harvest of snow 

crab beginning in the mid-1970s. 

The snow crab fishery in Alaska increased substantially following the steep reduction in king crab harvest in 

the early 1980s. Landings (mainly in the Bering Sea) grew steadily through the 1980s before peaking in 1991 

with a record harvest of more than 368 million lb. Following this peak, volume fluctuated, climbing to 

approximately 243 million lb before trending down to a low of 25 million lb in 2004. Since that time, harvests 

have trended upward, recovering to more than 93 million lb in 2012 (Figure 73).

Figure 73. Annual Snow and King Crab Harvests in Alaska, in Millions lb., 1967-2014

Sources: NMFS (1967-2013) and McDowell Group estimates (2014).

 92 (Zimmermann, Dew and Malley, 2009)

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

196719691971197319751977197919811983198519871989199119931995199719992001200320052007200920112013

Harvest (millions lb.)

Snow Crab King Crab

Photo Courtesy of ASMI.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 111

Federally managed snow crab fisheries in the Bering Sea are Alaska’s largest, typically accounting for more 

than 90 percent of the state’s total snow crab harvest. Of all Alaska snow crab fisheries, the Bering Sea opilio 

fishery is the most significant in terms of harvest volume, averaging 63.5 million lb annually from 2010 to 

2014 (Table 89). Harvests in federal fisheries for bairdi in Eastern and Western Bering Sea areas have have 

increased drastically in recent years after being closed from 2010 to 2013. The combined TAC in federallymanaged bairdi fisheries jumped to nearly 20 million lb in the 2015/2016 season. Bairdi now represents 

roughly one-third of all Alaska snow crab TACs, whereas prior to the 2015/2016 it had not exceeded 20 

percent of the total TAC. The percentage of TAC caught has also been rising in the fishery, as full exploitation 

of the allowable bairdi catch has only been approached in the last few seasons. 

The smaller, state-managed tanner/bairdi crab fisheries in Southeast, Kodiak, and the Alaska Peninsula have 

averaged just over 3 million lb annually from 2010 to 2014. While harvest volumes from Southeast have been 

stable over the last 5 years, fisheries near Kodiak and the Alaska peninsula have often been closed. 

Table 89. Alaska Snow Crab Harvest/TAC for Federal and State Fisheries, in Millions lb., 2011-2016

CY2011

Harvest

CY2012

Harvest

CY2013

Harvest

CY2014

Harvest

CY2015

Harvest

CY2016

TACs

Federal Fisheries 51.3 82.1 66.6 56.8 81.6 60.3

Bering Sea Snow Crab (opilio) 51.3 82.1 66.6 54.0 67.9 40.6

Eastern Bering Tanner Crab (bairdi) Closed Closed Closed 1.5 8.5 11.3

Western Bering Sea Tanner Crab (bairdi) Closed Closed Closed 1.3 5.3 8.4

State Tanner Fisheries (bairdi) 5.9 4.7 2.2 1.2 1.4 -

Southeast Tanner Crab 0.9 1.1 1.2 1.2 1.4 -

Kodiak Tanner Crab 1.5 1 0.7 Closed Closed -

Southern Peninsula Tanner Crab 2.9 1.9 0.3 Closed Closed -

Chignik Tanner Crab 0.6 0.7 Closed Closed Closed -

Total Tanner/Bairdi 5.9 4.7 2.2 4.0 15.1 -

Total Opilio 51.3 82.1 66.6 54.0 67.9 40.6

Total Snow Crab 57.2 86.8 68.8 58.0 83.0 -

Note: All federal harvests are applied to the second calendar year of the season. For example, total federal fishery harvests of opilio and bairdi 

from the 2014/2015 season are shown in calendar year 2015. 

Source: NMFS Alaska Region Catch Reports, ADF&G Regional Offices.

Product Description and Supply Chain 

Snow crab is harvested by commercial fishing vessels where they are kept alive in tanks which circulate 

seawater. Some vessels have the capacity to process onboard, but the majority of crab are delivered to 

shoreside facilities where they are butchered, cooked, frozen, and sorted by size. While a number of smaller 

primary processors sell directly to retail and food service markets, the majority of snow crab is sold first to a 

broker which facilitates distribution (Figure 74).

Snow crab sections—the most important product by both volume and value—are priced by the weight per 

section in ounces, ranging from 5 oz. to 12 oz. with heavier sections typically worth more. Wholesale value of 

sections has ranged from a low of $2.99 in 2006 to $5.45 in 2011.93 Small amounts of raw crab are processed 

in Alaska facilities for consumption in the Asian market. 

 93 ADF&G (COAR).
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 112

According to industry contacts, significant amounts of snow crab exported to China undergoes secondary 

processing for re-export into Japan, primarily crab meat for sushi.94 A portion of snow crab consumed in the 

domestic market undergoes secondary processing to produce cracked, scored, and split legs or claws.

One unique trait of snow crab is that they can 

“drop” their legs if injured or when being handled 

by fishermen. Snow crab missing legs cannot be 

sold as a symmetric cluster, instead these crab 

are exported to China where meat is extracted 

from the legs and body of the crab.95

While the supply chain between opilio and bairdi 

is very similar, increased bairdi harvest in recent 

years has led to an increase in product 

differentiation between the two species. Industry 

contacts indicate that while Japan has been the 

historical market for bairdi, the domestic market 

is growing. 

Figure 74. Alaska Snow Crab Supply Chain

 94 Interviews with domestic seafood company wholesale representatives. 95 Personal communication with domestic seafood company wholesale representative. 

Photo Courtesy of Alaska Seafood.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 113

Production Volume and Value

In 2014, snow crab was processed by 21 different facilities or vessels in Alaska. The majority (18) are 

shoreside facilities with the remainder either catcher/processors or floating processors. Nine shoreside 

facilities in Dutch Harbor and other plants in the Bering Sea region accounted for 88 percent of snow crab 

production in 2014 (Table 90). Approximately 12 percent was produced on the Alaska Peninsula, Kodiak 

Island, offshore processors, and facilities located in Southeast Alaska.

Table 90. Alaska Snow Crab Volume and Wholesale Value by Region, 2014

Region

Production Volume First Wholesale Value

Millions lb. Pct. of Total Millions $ Pct. of Total

Dutch Harbor 20.7 47% $109.3 47%

Bering Sea 18.2 41% 95.3 41%

Alaska Peninsula/Kodiak/Offshore 4.7 11% 24.7 11%

Southeast 0.7 1% 4.6 2%

Total 44.2 100% $233.9 100%

Note: Regions have been combined to preserve confidentiality. Values have been rounded. 

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Opilio crab has averaged 91 percent of snow crab product volume and 90 percent of first wholesale volume 

over the last 10 years. While bairdi products are smaller in volume and absolute value, their larger weight 

results in more valuable products on a unit value basis, a differential that has averaged nearly 20 percent 

over the last 10 years.

Figure 75. First Wholesale Production Volume of Alaska Snow Crab, in Millions lb., 2005-2014 

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume (million lb.)

Opilio Bairdi
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 114

Figure 76. First Wholesale Production Value of Alaska Snow Crab, in $Millions, 2005-2014

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Production Analysis 

Measured by both volume and value, crab sections are the largest proportion of snow crab products, 

accounting for nearly 100 percent of all product volume in 2014. Small amounts of shucked meat is produced 

from snow crab that are not able to be sold in sections because of missing legs.

The proportion of salable product available after processing relative to the animal’s live weight is known as 

the recovery rate. The recovery rate for frozen, cooked sections, ranges from 65 to 72 percent.96

Table 91. Volume and Wholesale Value of Snow Crab Products, 2014

Snow Crab Species Crab Sections All Other 

Products Total

Total Volume (millions lb.) 43.8 0.4 44.1

Opilio 37.0 0.3 37.3

Bairdi 6.8 0.1 6.9

Total Value ($millions) $231.4 $1.3 $232.7

Opilio $193.5 $1.3 $194.7

Bairdi $37.9 $0.1 $38.0

Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding.

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

 96 (Crapo, Paust, and Babbit, 2004)

$0

$50

$100

$150

$200

$250

$300

$350

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($millions)

Opilio Bairdi
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 115

Figure 77. First Wholesale Value and Volume of Snow Crab Sections, 2005-2014

Table 92. First Wholesale Value of Snow Crab Sections, in $Millions, 2005-2014

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$71.7 $91.2 $90.3 $131.3 $130.7 $103.4 $211.6 $294.5 $245.7 $233.3

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Key Markets for Snow Crab

The United States is the most significant market for Alaska snow crab producers, receiving an estimated 58 

percent of all first-order sales over the last 5 years (Table 93). China is the largest export market, accounting 

for 57 percent of all exports and 24 percent of total Alaska snow crab production over the same period. 

However, industry reports much of this volume is processed for consumption in Japanese and other Asian 

markets.97 Sales to Japan, Canada, and other foreign countries averaged 42 percent of all Alaska snow crab 

production from 2010 to 2014. 

Table 93. Estimated Sales of Alaska Snow Crab to Key Markets, in Millions lb., 2010-2014

Market 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Pct. of Total 

Production 

(5-yr. Avg.)

China 7.6 9.8 15.9 11.0 9.2 24%

Japan 3.1 7.6 7.4 3.3 3.6 11%

Canada 0.5 1.4 2.1 1.4 1.6 3%

Other Countries 0.2 0.9 3.3 3.0 1.9 4%

Total Exports 11.3 19.7 28.6 18.7 16.3 42%

U.S.1 20.4 19.5 33.5 30.7 27.8 58%

Total Production 31.7 39.2 62.1 49.4 44.1 100%

1 Estimate based on annual production less calendar year exports.

Note: Data pertains to primary exports only, does not portray product which may be re-exported to other markets. Figures may not sum 

due to rounding.

Source: ADF&G (COAR), ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database, and McDowell Group estimates. 

 97 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.

$2.00

$3.00

$4.00

$5.00

$6.00

$7.00

$8.00

$9.00

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

Unit Value ($/lb.)

Volume (Millions lb.)

Volume Unit Value
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 116

UNITED STATES

A relatively small proportion of all snow crab consumed in the United States comes from Alaska. McDowell 

Group estimates that over the last 5 years approximately 80 percent of all snow crab consumed in the United 

States originated outside the United States (Table 94). In 2014, an estimated 66 percent of snow crab sold in 

the United States came from Canada, a figure representing 87.9 million lb or more than three times Alaska’s 

estimated U.S. sales of 27.8 million lb (Figure 78). Alaska supplied an estimated 21 percent of U.S. supply, 

while the remainder came from other countries, the largest of which is Russia, accounting for 8 percent.

Beginning in 2015, one of the most pressing issues facing the processing industry is how to differentiate 

opilio and bairdi snow crab from one another. In most years, this has not been a large focus of the industry as 

bairdi harvests were relatively small. However, as bairdi TACs have increased from 2.2 million lb. in 2013 to 

16.5 million lb. in 2015, industry is trying to add value to bairdi harvests by highlighting its larger size and 

sweeter taste compared to opilio. Previous to increased bairdi volume, bairdi was often marketed as “Jumbo 

Snow Crab” or a similar generic equivalent. 

For the most part, both bairdi and opilio are currently marketed as snow crab. One strategy to assist product 

differentiation between bairdi and opilio is to encourage retailers and food service operators to use the 

species names, making it clear to the consumer bairdi is a different crab than the smaller opilio species. 

Some food service operators are marketing bairdi as a premium product, highlighting its larger size and 

sweeter taste compered to opilio. For example, Red Lobster showcased bairdi as a special in summer of 2015 

and Joe’s Crab Shack has “Jumbo Bairdi Crab” as a permanent menu item. Las Vegas and southern states are 

some of the largest markets for snow crab in the domestic market. 

Table 94. Estimated U.S. Snow Crab Market Supply, in Millions lb., 2010-2014

Year Alaska

Production Imports Exports Est. U.S. Supply

Est. Product 

from Alaska

Pct.

Alaska

2010 31.8 101.9 11.3 122.4 20.5 17%

2011 39.5 95.6 19.7 115.4 19.8 17%

2012 62.1 99.9 28.6 133.4 33.5 25%

2013 49.4 121.8 18.7 152.5 30.7 20%

2014 44.1 104.6 16.3 132.4 27.8 21%

Five-year Average 45.4 104.7 18.9 131.2 26.5 20%

Note: Totals and rows may not sum due to rounding. 

Source: ADF&G (COAR), NMFS Foreign trade data, and McDowell Group estimates.

Figure 78. Estimated Source of Snow Crab Consumed in the United States, 2014

Canada

66%

Domestic 

(Alaska)

21%

Russia

8%

All Other 

5%

Source: NMFS Trade Data, McDowell Group Estimates.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 117

JAPAN

McDowell Group estimates that Japan is the world’s second-largest consumer of snow crab. From 2010 to 

2014, Japan has imported an annual average of 51.6 million lb of snow crab from all countries (Table 95). 

Slightly more that 50 percent of this volume originated in Russia and 27.8 percent came from Canadian 

sources. The remaining 9.7 percent came predominantly from the United States and other countries. 

The value of these imports averaged slightly more than $312.3 million with about 49 percent or $153.2 

million flowing to Russia (Table 95). The remaining $159.1 million went to Canada ($103.8 million), the United 

States ($51.9) million, and other countries ($3.5 million).

With more supply and a lower price than king crab, snow crab functions as a popular substitute. The crab is 

traditionally consumed during the holiday season and during Golden Week which runs from April 29th to May 

5th spanning seven public holidays. Common ways snow crab are consumed in Japan include use in sushi and 

soups such as mizutaki and shabu-shabu where raw crab is placed in boiling water along with other 

ingredients. Some variations of this technique results in the crab curling as it is cooks resulting in an 

attractive, flower-like presentation of seafood. Snow crab is commonly consumed both in homes and at 

restaurants.

The strong U.S. dollar and weak Russian ruble make Alaska snow crab relatively more expensive, positioning 

Russian snow crab as a more affordable option for Japanese consumers. According to industry contacts, this

currency issue is one of the most significant challenges faced by processors trying to sell into the Japanese 

market.98 

Japanese imports of U.S. crab often far exceed corresponding data on U.S. snow crab exports to Japan. 

Secondary processing operations in China likely explains much of the variance. Crab routed through China 

may still be imported into Japan and categorized as a “Product of U.S.A.” Similar to many other products 

analyzed in this series, the multi-national supply chain of snow crab underscores the importance of not 

limiting market analyses only to first-order export statistics. 

Table 95. Japanese Imports of Snow Crab, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Import Volume (millions lb.)

Russia 25.7 33.2 28.3 24.6 25.8

Canada 11.7 13.8 17.7 12.6 15.7

U.S. (mostly Alaska) 4.0 9.3 12.6 6.9 7.5

Other Countries 0.9 1.1 1.0 1.1 4.6

Total 42.3 57.3 59.6 45.2 53.6

Pct. U.S. (Alaska) 10% 16% 21% 15% 14%

Import Value ($millions)

Russia $128.1 $214.5 $150.8 $118.3 $154.3

Canada 74.5 115.3 130.2 89.2 109.6

U.S. (Alaska) 17.0 62.5 80.4 46.3 52.9

Other Countries 2.7 4.8 3.6 3.4 2.8

Total $222.4 $397.1 $365.1 $257.2 $319.6

Pct. U.S. (Alaska) 8% 16% 22% 18% 17%

Source: Global Trade Atlas.

 98 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 118

CHINA

While China is the largest trading partner measured by exports, industry contacts indicate the majority of this

crab undergoes secondary processing, mainly extracting meat for use in sushi, before being re-exported to 

Japan.99 Many of the largest seafood processors handling snow crab are owned by Japanese companies 

which take advantage of lower labor costs in China for reprocessing. Since 2007, China has imported an 

average of 9.7 million lb of Alaska snow crab worth $42.1 million (Figure 79). 

Figure 79. U.S. Snow Crab Exports to China, 2007-2014

Source: ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database.

Global Production and Competing Supply

The global harvest of snow crab averaged slightly more than 400 million lb per year from 2005 to 2013. 

Canadian harvests averaged 50 percent of this volume over this period. Volume from South Korea, the 

second largest global producer, increased nearly 60 percent over this period. Snow crab harvest in the United 

States (Alaska) has fluctuated significantly over this period, from a low of 28.4 million lb in 2005 to 

approximately 93 million lb in 2012. Russian production has increased steadily over the last 10 years, rising 

from 46.3 million lb in 2005 to 64.4 million lb in 2013. The balance comes primarily from Japan and 

Greenland which have averaged 10.9 and 5.8 million lb, respectively (Figure 80).

The global supply of snow crab in 2013 was approximately 452 million lb. Canada’s harvest of 216.1 million lb

accounted for 48 percent of the total (Figure 81). South Korea accounted for 19 percent and Alaska’s harvest 

of slightly less than 69 million lb represented 15 percent of the global supply. Russia’s harvest volume was 

similar to Alaska’s, accounting for 14 percent of the total. Japan’s 9.3 million pound harvest accounted for 2 

percent while supply from the North Atlantic countries totaled the remainder. 

 99 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.

0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

14.0

16.0

18.0

2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$0.0

$10.0

$20.0

$30.0

$40.0

$50.0

$60.0

$70.0

$80.0

Volume (millions lb.)

Value ($millions)

Volume Value
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 119

Figure 80. Global Harvest Volume of Snow Crab, in Millions lb., 2005-2013

Source: FAO Stats.

Snow crab supply from the Barents Sea has increased in recent years after a large biomass was discovered in 

2013.100 According to trade press, the 2016 harvest of Russian snow crab from the Barents Sea will increase 

45 percent when compared to 2015, totaling slightly more than 3.5 million lb.

101 In addition, Norwegian TACs 

in the Barents will add 4.4 million lb to the global snow crab supply in 2016. 

Figure 81. Global Snow Crab Harvest by Country, 2013

Source: FAO Stats.

 100 (Havforskningsinstitutten, 2013) 101 (Vovchenko, 2015b)

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

450

500

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Harvest Volume (millions lb.)

Canada South Korea United States of America Russia All Other

Canada

48%

South Korea

20%

U.S.

(Alaska)

15%

Russia

14%

Japan

2%

Greenland

1%

St. Pierre 

and 

Miquelon

<1%

Norway

<1%
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 120

Wholesale Market Profile for King Crab

King crab, including the red (Paralithodes camtschaticus), golden (Lithodes aequispinus), and blue 

(Paralithodes platypus) species, are caught in waters throughout Alaska, with the largest concentration found 

in the Bering Sea. Harvested commercially since the 1930s, king crab are one Alaska’s most valuable fisheries, 

on a per pound basis. In 2014, 15.8 million lb of king crab were harvested in Alaska, representing 10.7 million 

lb of production volume worth approximately $116.7 million in first wholesale value. 

Table 96. Summary Profile of Alaska King Crab Wholesale Production and Markets, 2014 

Value and Volume Key Products Sections Other

First Wholesale Production (millions lb.) 10.7 Pct. of Value 93% 7%

Pct. of Global King Crab Harvest (2013) 15% Key Markets U.S. Japan Other

First Wholesale Value ($millions) $116.7 Pct. of Final Sales 51% 35% 14%

Pct. Change in Value from Prior 4-yr Avg. -19% YOY Change -15% 33% -1%

Pct. of Alaska Crab Value 31% Competing Species: Russian king crab, Southern king crab

Sources: ADF&G (COAR) and McDowell Group estimates.

Fishery Summary

King crab are harvested with pots at depths ranging 

from 90 feet to more than 300 feet. These steel 

cages (typically 7’x7’x3’) are baited with Pacific cod, 

herring, or salmon, and placed on the ocean floor 

for 24 hours or longer. A line runs from the pot to a 

buoy floating at the ocean surface, allowing for 

retrieval by a fishing vessel.

Each year, the total allowable catch (TAC) in Alaska

king crab fisheries is set by the National Marine 

Fisheries Services (NMFS) and the Alaska 

Department of Fish & Game (ADF&G) through the 

North Pacific Fishery Management Council (NPFMC.) 

A portion of these TACs is allocated to Community 

Development Quota (CDQ) groups in western Alaska. 

In 2005, the most economically significant king crab fisheries were rationalized with allocations based upon 

historical harvests. Previous to this transition, season lengths were compressed into a short period of competitive 

fishing; the red king crab season lasted only 3 days in 2004. The next year the season was extended to 92 days. 

Short seasons compromised both safety and product quality as fisherman had to fish regardless of weather and 

processors were often overwhelmed by high volumes landed over very short periods.

Commercial harvest of Alaska king crab was pioneered by Japanese and Russian fleets using tangle nets 

starting in the 1930s. Domestic harvest began in the late 1940s, and by the early 1960s U.S. fishermen 

dominated the fishery.102 Around the same time, the use of trawl and tangle nets for harvesting crab were 

 102 (Zimmermann, Dew and Malley, 2009)

Photo courtesy of Garrett Evridge.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 121

outlawed and only males meeting a size requirement 

could be retained. With the passing of the 1976 

Magnuson-Stevenson Act, foreign vessels were 

prevented from harvesting Alaska king crab. The 

domestic fleet continued to develop as strong prices 

and landings resulted in increased fishing pressure. 

After landings peaked in 1980 at 180 million lb, the 

harvest fell precipitously (driven mainly by reductions 

around Kodiak Island) and has averaged approximately 

20 million lb annually since the early 1980s.

Federally managed king crab fisheries in the Bering Sea 

are Alaska’s largest, typically accounting for more than 

90 percent of Alaska king crab harvest volume. Of all 

Alaska king crab fisheries, the Bristol Bay Red king crab 

fishery is the most significant in terms of harvest volume, averaging 9.7 million lb annually from 2010 to 

2014. The Aleutian Islands Golden king crab fishery is the second largest king crab in Alaska, averaging 5.9 

million lb. The Saint Matthews Blue king crab fishery often produces the only commercial harvest of blue king 

crab in Alaska. It has averaged 1.0 million lb over the past 5 years, but recent harvest volumes are well below 

those of 2010 to 2012 (Figure 82).

Figure 82. Annual King Crab Landings in Alaska, in Millions lb., 1950-2014

Source: NMFS (1950-2013) and McDowell Group estimates (2014).

The smaller, state-managed king crab fisheries in Southeast have averaged approximately 500,000 lb annually 

from 2010 to 2014 (Table 97). While harvest volumes from Norton Sound have been stable over the last 5

years, king crab fisheries in Southeast have often been closed. Of all Alaska king crab fisheries, the Bristol Bay 

Red king crab is the most significant in terms of volume, averaging nearly 10 million lb annually from 2010 to 

2014. 

Photo courtesy of Garrett Evridge (pictured, left).

0

20

40

60

80

100

120

140

160

180

200

1950195719641971197819851992199920062013

Volume (millions lb.)
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 122

Table 97. Alaska King Crab Harvest/TAC in Federal and State Fisheries, in Millions lb., 2010-2015

CY2010

Harvest

CY2011

Harvest

CY2012

Harvest

CY2013

Harvest

CY2014

Harvest

CY2015 

TAC/GHL

Federal Fisheries 22.1 15.6 15.3 14.3 15.8 16.3

Bristol Bay Red King Crab 14.7 7.8 7.8 8.5 9.9 10.0

Aleutian Islands Golden King Crab 6.1 6.0 5.9 5.8 5.7 6.0

St. Matthews Blue King Crab 1.3 1.9 1.6 Closed 0.3 0.4

State Fisheries 1.1 1.3 1.1 0.9 0.6 0.6

Norton Sound Red King Crab 0.4 0.4 0.5 0.4 0.4 0.5

Southeast Red King Crab Closed 0.2 Closed Closed Closed Closed

Southeast and Yakutat Brown Crab 0.7 0.7 0.6 0.5 0.2 0.1

Total Red King 15.3 8.4 8.4 9.1 10.3 10.1

Total Golden/Brown King 6.7 6.7 6.9 6.8 6.5 6.4

Total Blue King 2.4 1.7 1.6 Closed 0.7 0.4

Total King Crab 24.3 16.8 16.9 15.9 17.5 16.9

Note: All federal fishery harvests are applied to the first calendar year of the season. For example, federal king crab harvests from the 

2014/2015 season are shown in calendar year 2014.

Source: NMFS Economic Crab SAFE 2014, ADF&G Shellfish Reports, and ADG&G Regional Offices.

Product Description and Supply Chain 

King crab is harvested by commercial fishing vessels where they are kept alive in tanks which circulate 

seawater. While some vessels have the capacity to process onboard, the majority of crab are delivered to 

shoreside facilities where they are butchered, cooked, frozen, and sorted by size. 

The vast majority of king crab are sold in the wholesale market as cooked/frozen sections. King crab sections 

are priced by the number of legs and claws needed to fill a 10-pound box (Table 98). Lower counts indicate 

larger legs and are typically more valuable. This sizing system commonly ranges from 6-9 legs and claws per 

box to twenty or more per box. King crab sections averaged approximately $10.00/lb. at the first wholesale 

level over the 2004 to 2014 period, ranging from a low of $6.78/lb. to a high of $15.17/lb. in 2011.103

Table 98. King Crab Section Sizing

Number of Legs and Claws per 10-pound box

6-9 12-14 16-20 20+

9-12 14-17 20-24

A small portion of the king crab harvest is flown to high-end markets as a live or fresh, uncooked product. 

Live king crab production totaled approximately 260,000 lb in 2014 worth $3.5 million, while fresh production 

totaled 105,000 lb worth $1.3 million. Together these product forms accounted for 4.1 percent of total king 

crab first wholesale value. Live and fresh product forms accounted for 6.0 percent of first wholesale value in 

2012, the recent high-water mark. 

While the majority of crab flows directly from primary processors to international and domestic wholesale 

markets for consumption at the retail and food service level, an estimated 10 to 15 percent of the annual 

production undergoes secondary processing (in addition to separating legs/claws and sorting by size). This 

figure represented approximately 1.0 to 1.6 million lb of specialty Alaska king crab products in 2014.104

 103 ADF&G (COAR). 104 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 123

Common specialty crab products include cracked, scored, and split legs or claws—all products which make it 

easier for consumers to access crab meat. The majority of this secondary processing takes place in the Pacific 

Northwest, with some occurring in other plants around the United States.105 These specialty crab products are 

primarily consumed in the domestic market. 

Figure 83. Alaska King Crab Supply Chain

Production Volume and Value

In 2014, king crab was processed by 26 different facilities or vessels in Alaska. The majority (20) were 

shoreside facilities with the remainder either catcher/processors or floating processors. While most 

processing capacity is located close to the Bering Sea, a number of facilities in Southeast Alaska serve local 

fisheries. 

Table 99. Alaska King Crab First Wholesale Volume and Value by Region, 2014

Region

Volume Value

Millions lb. Pct. of Total Millions $ Pct. of Total

Dutch Harbor/Alaska Peninsula 9.5 89% $101.9 87%

Bering Sea/Norton Sound 0.7 7% 8.2 7%

Kodiak/Off-shore 0.3 3% 4.5 4%

Southeast/ Cook Inlet 0.1 1% 2.2 2%

Total 10.7 100% $116.7 100%

Note: Regions have been combined to preserve confidentiality.

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

 105 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 124

Nearly 90 percent of the 2014 king crab harvest was processed in the Dutch Harbor/Alaska Peninsula region, 

with the majority handled by shoreside facilities in Dutch Harbor (Table 99). Facilities in the Bering 

Sea/Norton Sound region (mainly in St. Paul and Nome) processed 7 percent. The remaining 4 percent was 

processed in facilities in Kodiak, off-shore, Cook Inlet, and Southeast. 

Figure 84. First Wholesale Production Volume Alaska King Crab, in Millions lb., 2004-2014 

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

Red king crab is the largest Alaska king crab fishery measured by volume and value, accounting for an average 

of 67 percent of production volume and 75 percent of first wholesale value since 2004 (Figures 84 and 85). 

Over the same period, golden king crab has averaged 30 percent of volume and 22 percent of value. With 

fisheries closed 6 out of the last 11 years, blue king crab volume and value is relatively small. 

Figure 85. First Wholesale Value of Alaska King Crab, in $Millions, 2004-2014

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

$0

$20

$40

$60

$80

$100

$120

$140

$160

$180

$200

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Value ($millions)

Red King Crab Blue King Crab Golden King Crab

0.0

2.0

4.0

6.0

8.0

10.0

12.0

14.0

16.0

18.0

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Volume mMillion lb.)

Red King Crab Blue King Crab Golden King Crab
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 125

Production Analysis 

Crab sections are the largest proportion of king crab products, accounting for approximately 95 percent of all 

product volume in 2014. Whole crab, either frozen or alive, accounted for nearly 5 percent of all products in 

2014. Crab shipped alive are flown from Alaska directly to market. The king crab are kept in a moist 

environment and can live approximately 24-hours out of the water. Crab tails totaled less than 1 percent of 

all king crab products in 2014.

Table 100. Production Volume and First Wholesale Value of King Crab Products, 2014

King Crab Species Crab Sections All Other 

Products Total

Total Volume (millions lb.) 10.2 0.6 10.7

Red 6.7 0.4 7.1

Golden 3.3 0.2 3.4

Blue 0.2 < 0.1 0.2

Total Value ($millions) $109.4 $7.3 $116.7

Red $77.2 $4.8 $81.9

Golden 30.3 2.5 32.8

Blue 2.0 <0.1 2.0

Note: Figures may not sum due to rounding.

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

The proportion of salable product available after processing relative to the animal’s live weight is known as 

the recovery rate. This rate ranges from slightly more than 20 percent for cooked crabmeat to roughly 95 

percent for cooked whole crab. The recovery rate for sections, depending on the size of crab, ranges from 52 

to 67 percent.106 Red and golden crab yield a higher recovery rate than blue king crab which is often smaller. 

Figure 86. First Wholesale Volume and Value of King Crab Sections, 2004-2014

Table 101. First Wholesale Value of Alaska King Crab Sections, in $Millions, 2004-2014

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$113.4 $114.2 $88.6 $127.0 $143.5 $111.6 $163.0 $156.9 $115.8 $108.0 $109.4

Source: ADF&G (COAR).

 106 (Crapo, Paust, & Babbit, 1993)

$0

$2

$4

$6

$8

$10

$12

$14

$16

$18

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

0

2

4

6

8

10

12

14

16

Unit Value ($/lb.)

Volume (millions lb.)

Volume Unit Value
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 126

Key Markets for King Crab

The United States is the most 

significant market for Alaska king 

crab, averaging 44 percent of all 

production over the last 5 years

(Table 102). The domestic market 

buys the most golden king crab and is 

the second largest market for Alaska 

red king crab.107 Japan is the largest 

export market, accounting for 60 

percent of all exports and buying an 

estimated one-third of total Alaska 

king crab production. Canada, China, 

and all other countries have averaged 

22 percent of all Alaska king crab 

exports from 2012 to 2014. 

Discussions with industry 

representatives indicate the majority (possibly 80 percent) of king crab is sold on the wholesale market 

between November and February, beginning with Thanksgiving and concluding with Super Bowl Sunday. 

Table 102. Estimated Sales of Alaska King Crab to Key Markets, in Millions lb., 2010-2014

Market 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Pct. of Total 

(5-yr. Avg.)

Japan 6.4 3.8 2.6 2.8 3.7 34%

Canada 0.8 1.3 0.9 0.7 0.6 8%

China 0.7 0.7 0.4 0.4 0.4 5%

Other Countries 1.4 2.3 1.0 0.5 0.6 10%

Total Exports 9.4 8.2 4.9 4.3 5.2 56%

U.S.1 4.9 3.2 4.8 6.4 5.5 44%

Total Production 14.3 11.4 9.7 10.7 10.7 100%

1 Estimate based on annual production less calendar year exports.

Note: Data pertains to primary exports only, does not portray product which may be re-exported to other markets. Figures may not sum due 

to rounding.

Source: ADF&G (COAR), NMFS Trade Data, ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database, and McDowell Group estimates. 

UNITED STATES

McDowell Group estimates that over the last 5 years more than 80 percent of all king crab consumed 

domestically has originated outside the United States, mainly from Russia (Table 103). This is a surprising 

figure given that many U.S. consumers likely associate king crab with Alaska and the popular Discoverychannel TV show “Deadliest Catch.” 

According to industry representatives, an estimated 70 percent of red king crab sold in the United States goes 

to food service with the remaining 30 percent sold at retail. Golden king crab is split about evenly between 

food service, retail, and the military which is required to purchase domestic food products. Food service is 

comprised of high-end restaurants and family/casual restaurants (Joe’s Crab Shack, Red Lobster, etc.). Most 

grocery chains with a seafood case sell some variety of king crab, and Costco does significant volume with 

temporary “road-show” sales where king crab is featured for a limited time along with other shellfish 

products. 

 107 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.

Photo courtesy of Garrett Evridge.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 127

Although king crab is widely considered a luxury good, the U.S. market remains price-conscious when it 

comes to selecting product. There is a market for red king crab at fine dining and upscale restaurants, as well 

as Costco and high-end grocery stores. Golden and blue king crab are sold primarily into the domestic 

markets. These relatively affordable varieties are often sold at national restaurant chains and to the military. 

Table 103. Estimated U.S. King Crab Market Supply, in Millions lb., 2010-2014

Year Alaska

Production Imports Exports Est. U.S. Supply

Est. Product 

from Alaska

Pct.

Alaska

2010 15.1 23.0 9.5 28.5 5.6 20%

2011 11.4 20.1 8.1 23.4 3.3 14%

2012 10.3 24.7 4.9 30.1 5.4 18%

2013 10.7 25.3 4.3 31.7 6.4 20%

2014 10.7 27.6 5.2 33.1 5.5 16%

Five-year Average 11.7 24.1 6.4 29.3 5.2 18%

Note: These data do not distinguish between red, blue, and golden king crab. Totals and rows may not sum due to rounding. 

Source: ADF&G (COAR), NMFS Foreign Trade Data, ASMI Alaska Seafood Export Database, and McDowell Group estimates.

In 2014, nearly 70 percent of king crab consumed in the United States came from imported Russian product, 

a figure representing 22.7 million lb or more than four times Alaska’s estimated U.S. sales of 5.2 million lb

(Figure 87). King crab from Russia is typically sold at a discount to Alaska product in the domestic market.108

Imports from Argentina have grown from approximately 700,000 lb in 2010 to nearly 4.4 million lb in 2014 or 

14 percent of the total. All other sources equaled approximately 1 percent.

Figure 87. Estimated Source of King Crab Consumed in the United States, 2014

JAPAN

Over the last 10-years, Japan has imported an average of 5.1 million lb of Alaska king crab worth $42 million, 

most of which is red king crab (Figure 88). King crab is a common gift given during the December holiday 

season; an industry contact estimates 80 to 90 percent of red king crab is sold in the months prior to this 

holiday season.109 Similar to other markets, larger crab sections are valued more, especially as a gift. A 

common practice is to sell smaller sections to restaurants and reserve the larger sections for retail sales. 

 108 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative. 109 Interview with domestic seafood company wholesale representative.

Russia

69%

Domestic 

(Alaska)

16%

Argentina

14%

All Other

1%

Source: NMFS Trade Data, McDowell Group Estimates.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 128

Exports to Japan have been reduced in recent years due to more conservative harvest levels in Alaska. 

Additionally, a strengthening U.S. dollar can make seafood from other countries more affordable to the 

Japanese customer, reducing demand for Alaska king crab.110

Figure 88. U.S. Red King Crab Exports to Japan, 2005-2014

In total, Japan imported an average of nearly 30 million lb of king crab annually from 2010 to 2014 worth 

$220 million (Table 104). More than 80 percent of this volume originated in Russia with the remainder 

coming from Alaska and small amounts from Norway, Chile and other countries. 

Table 104. Japanese Imports of King Crab, 2010-2014

2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

Import Volume (millions lb.)

Russia 17.6 19.6 41.0 27.6 17.4

U.S. (Alaska) 6.4 3.8 2.6 2.8 3.7

Other Countries 1.6 0.7 0.4 0.1 0.0

Total 25.7 24.1 44.1 30.4 21.1

Pct. U.S. (Alaska) 25% 16% 6% 9% 18%

Import Value ($millions)

Russia $127.7 $203.3 $265.7 $145.4 $132.7

U.S. (Alaska) 65.2 43.7 29.7 28.3 36.8

Other Countries 11.2 8.5 4.1 0.7 0.0

Total $204.1 $255.4 $299.4 $174.3 $169.5

Pct. U.S. (Alaska) 32% 17% 10% 16% 22%

Source: Global Trade Atlas.

Global Production and Competing Supply

The global supply of king crab averaged nearly 150 million lb per year from 2004 to 2013 and is dominated by 

Russian production, which accounted for an estimated 71 percent of the total harvest volume during the 10-

year period (Figure 89). Total supply declined by more than 50 percent between 2007 and 2010, but has 

 110 As the U.S. dollar gets stronger against the Yen, U.S. products become relatively expensive to Japanese consumers.

0.0

1.0

2.0

3.0

4.0

5.0

6.0

7.0

8.0

9.0

2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014

$0.0

$10.0

$20.0

$30.0

$40.0

$50.0

$60.0

$70.0

Volume (million lb.)

Value ($millions)

Volume (millions of lbs) Value

Source: NMFS Trade Data, compiled by McDowell Group.
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 129

increased slightly in recent years, reaching 115 million lb in 2013. Alaska typically has the second-largest king 

crab harvest production. Chile and Argentina have the third-and-fourth-largest king crab harvest production, 

catching Southern king crab, a close substitute of red king crab. The two countries’ combined harvest has 

grown substantially in recent years, increasing from 9.3 million lb in 2004 to 21.6 million lb in 2013. Norway 

accounts for the balance, harvesting 3 million lb of king crab in the Barents Sea.

Figure 89. Estimated Global Supply of King Crab, in Millions lb., 2004-2013

Historically, Russian harvest of king crab has included significant amounts of illegal, unreported, and 

unregulated (IUU) production. Although a portion of the harvest is conducted illegally and in excess of stated 

TACs, the IUU harvest volume can be estimated. Because nearly all Russian crab harvests are exported, the 

volume of Russian crab imported by other countries can be converted into a live weight equivalent and 

compared to official harvests statistics. Using this method, McDowell Group estimates the 2013 IUU king crab 

harvest in Russia totaled 21 million lb, while the remaining 52 million lb was legally harvested. Not included in 

the table above are 33 million lb of IUU Russian crab which had no species identification on the trade data. 

This volume is likely comprised almost entirely of king and snow crab. Beginning in 2008 the Russian 

government began a focused campaign to reduce IUU harvest. While these efforts have impacted IUU 

harvest, a significant amount of traded product is still unaccounted for in official Russian harvest statistics. 

In 2013—the most recent year for which data is available—harvest of Russian king crab accounted for 64 

percent of global production, with 46 percent of global supply coming from legal sources and an estimated 18 

percent from IUU sources (Figure 90). Russian IUU production has declined significantly in recent years, but 

was still greater than all of Alaska’s king crab production in 2013. While Russian IUU production is trending 

down, legal king crab harvests are increasing substantially. 

With a harvest of nearly 16 million lb, Alaska represented 14 percent of global supply in 2013. Chile’s harvest 

of slightly less than 13 million lb and Argentina’s harvest of 9 million lb together equaled nearly 20 percent of 

global supply. Norway accounted for approximately 3 percent of global supply. 

0

50

100

150

200

250

2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013

Harvest Volume (millions lb.)

All Other

Argentina/Chile

United States

(Alaska)

Russia (legal and

estimated IUU)

Source: FAO, NMFS (U.S.), McDowell Group estimates (Russian IUU production).
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 130

Figure 90. Estimated Proportions of Global King Crab Supply, 2013

Argentina

8%

Chile

11%

Norway

3%

Russia (Legal)

45%

Russian (est. 

IUU)

18%

Alaska 15%

Source: FAO, NMFS, McDowell Group estimates (Russian IUU).
Alaska Groundfish and Crab Wholesale Market Profiles NOAA/NMFS • 131

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McDowell Acknowledgements:

This project benefited greatly from input provided by government agencies and 

industry participants. McDowell Group would like to express its appreciation to employees 

of NOAA’s Alaska Fisheries Science Center, the Alaska Fisheries Information Network, the 

Alaska Department of Fish and Game, the Alaska Seafood Marketing Institute, and numerous 

private companies.

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