These figures represent a fall of 14.2 per cent in volume and 5.6 per cent in value, when compared with the same period of 2008, when 484,781 tonnes worth USD 1.088 million were exported.

SENASA certified nearly 305,588 tonnes of fish exports, worth an estimated USD 610.7 million, and 110,301 tonnes of shellfish exports at a value of USD 417 million between January and November 2009.

In terms of volume, the highest registered exports were of common hake (Merluccius hubbsi), with 139,190 tonnes worth USD 309 million.

Next in line were squid (Illex argentinus) exports, with 52,629 tonnes worth USD 63.2 million; shrimp (Pleoticus muelleri) with 49,399 tonnes worth USD 310.1 million; and hoki (Macruronus magellanicus) with 26,092 tonnes worth 49.2 million.

They were followed by exports of anchoita (Engraulis anchovy), with 9,724 tonnes worth USD 20.3 million, great Atlantic scallop (Zygochlamys patagonica) with 7,659 tonnes worth USD 40.7 million; and stingray (Potamotrygon brachyura), with 5,716 tonnes worth USD 12 million.

Some 5,616 tonnes of golden kingclip (Genypterus blacodes) worth USD 19.6 million and 2,283 tonnes of Patagonian flounder (Paralichthys patagonicus) worth USD 9.4 million were exported, among other species.

Spain held as the main market for Argentine fish and shellfish exports, in importing 88,830 tonnes worth USD 322.8 million between January and November 2009.

Brazil ranked second with 56,048 tonnes worth USD 130 million; followed by Italy, with 27,018 tonnes valued at USD 101.8 million; and the US, with 19,018 tonnes worth USD 56.1 million.

Analia Murias

Source: FIS

Updated by Vietfish Community