Bluefin tuna

Bluefin tuna (Thunnus thynnus) is a large, highly migratory pelagic species of the Scombridae family, widely distributed in the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. It is one of the most valuable tuna species in the world, recognized for its exceptional size, powerful swimming ability, and premium market position.

Bluefin tuna is used mainly for human consumption and is marketed primarily in high-value fresh and frozen formats, including loins, fillets, steaks, and sashimi- and sushi-grade products. Its commercial value is closely linked to its deep red flesh, high fat content, rich flavour, and excellent texture, which make it especially prized in premium foodservice and export markets. 

The species supports important commercial fisheries and capture aquaculture-related fattening operations, particularly in the Mediterranean region. The main producing and trading countries include nations of the Mediterranean basin, as well as major tuna markets such as Japan, where bluefin remains one of the most prestigious and highest-value seafood categories. 

At the same time, Atlantic bluefin tuna is one of the most tightly controlled commercial fish species in the world: catches are managed under the strict quota system of ICCAT, which sets total allowable catches, allocates national quotas, and applies detailed seasonal, monitoring, traceability, and control measures. For the eastern Atlantic and Mediterranean stock, ICCAT set the TAC at 40,570 tonnes annually for 2023-2025, and then increased it to 48,403 tonnes annually for 2026-2028. For the western Atlantic stock, the TAC was 2,726 tonnes annually for 2023-2025, rising to 3,081.6 tonnes annually for 2026-2028.