Between 2013 and 2023, the export volume of prepared or preserved fish from South Africa fluctuated significantly. The most notable shifts include a peak in 2016 followed by sharp declines in 2017 and 2018, and a more modest recovery starting 2021. By 2023, export volumes stood at 2.12 million kilograms, reflecting a -1.65% year-on-year decline from the previous year. Over the last two years (2021-2023), the year-on-year variations have shown a decrease, while the average variation over the last 5 years (CAGR) indicates a minimal growth of 0.9% per year.
Forecasts from 2024 onwards predict a steady decline, with an estimated 5-year compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of -1.45%, leading to a total reduction of -7.07% by 2028.
Future trends to watch include emerging market demands, shifts in global trade policies, impacts of climate change on fish supply, and advancements in fish preservation technologies.