Calibrate tuna grading standards used in major markets. Quantitatively examine relationships between fresh tuna grades and prices in the Hawaii market. Test whether geographically separate markets for fresh tuna are inter-connected through quality and price differentiation. Forecast international outlook for fresh tuna industry and assess the implications for Pacific island fisheries. Discuss possible application of the research to fishery management.
Fresh marlin is less differentiated than fresh tuna.
Wide variation in fresh tuna prices corresponds with varying quality requirements of highly differentiated end uses. Premium products command higher prices than lower quality products. Tuna grades integrate effects of harvesting, handling and storage on fish quality. Quality grades define market and price interactions among tuna from multiple sources and fishing gear types. The future market trend is toward even greater differentiation in product types and associated quality requirements.