Navigating the New EU Tuna Landscape — Regulations, Quotas, and How to Respond
The EU tuna market is undergoing significant regulatory and supply chain shifts, with the implementation of new freezing standards and persistent strain on critical tariff rate quotas. These changes will reshape sourcing, compliance, and costs for the industry. At Angfa, we are proactively analyzing these developments to ensure our partners are informed, prepared, and supported.
Understanding the Dual Challenge: Stricter Standards & Limited Quotas
Two key factors are converging to redefine the EU tuna market in 2026 and beyond:
What Challenges Does This Pose?
The intersection of tighter regulation and constrained quotas creates a complex operating environment:
Compliance Complexity
Exporters must meticulously segregate supply chains for "direct consumption" vs. "industrial processing" tuna, with full traceability and documented compliance with the -18°C rule.
Increased Operational Costs
Investments may be required to upgrade freezing facilities, implement monitoring systems, and manage more rigorous documentation.
Supply Chain Disruption & Risk
Non-compliant "direct consumption" shipments risk being rejected at the EU border or downgraded to lower value industrial use. Simultaneously, the ATQ shortage may limit access to affordable raw materials.
Market Access Redefinition
The new rules effectively raise the technical and compliance barrier for high value, ready-to-eat tuna products entering the EU.
How Could This Affect Our Clients?
These market dynamics may translate into several tangible impacts for businesses across the chain:
📦 For Buyers of High Value Tuna Products
Expect increased focus on supplier verification, proof of freezing protocol compliance, and potentially higher costs reflecting the enhanced production and monitoring requirements.
🏭 For Processing Industry Partners
Prepare for continued tightness and potential cost increases for tuna loin raw material due to ATQ limitations, affecting production planning and product pricing.
🤝 For All Partners
Greater emphasis on precise end use designation in contracts and shipping documentation will be critical to avoid customs issues.
Our Proactive Approach: Navigating the Changes Together
At Angfa, we view these challenges as an opportunity to reinforce the resilience and transparency of our supply chain. Here is how we are preparing:
The EU market is demanding higher standards of safety, traceability, and sustainability. While this presents hurdles, it also distinguishes committed, capable suppliers. We are dedicated to being your reliable partner through this transition, ensuring compliance, securing supply, and protecting the value of your business.
Let's connect to discuss how these changes specifically impact your operations and how we can tailor our strategy to support you.
