the tuna market | France

1.1 Definition and scope of the study

Tuna is an edible fish that includes more than 40 species (skipjack, bluefin, yellowfin, patudo, albacore, ...) living in all oceans and the Mediterranean Sea. It is highly valued for its many nutritional qualities: it is rich in proteins, selenium, phosphorus and omega-3 fatty acids. It can be eaten canned, fresh, refrigerated or frozen.

Worldwide, tuna species represent 20% of the value of all marine capture fisheries. More than 7.9 million tons of tuna (and related species) were caught in 2018, a level never before seen.

The tuna industry is similar to the fish industry and includes auctions, fishmongers and processors, wholesalers and central purchasing agencies, and retailers (fishmongers, supermarkets, etc.).

In France, tuna is mostly consumed in cans, it is also the favorite fish of the French in terms of consumption of canned food. In 2018, 85.9% of the French bought canned tuna. The most widespread brands are Petit Navire and Connétables. French canneries, located on the French coastline, are important players in the sector. We can mention La Belle Iloise, Gonidec or La Compagnie Bretonne.

Among the other outlets that have been growing in recent years, the development of Japanese restaurants (especially sushi) is important.