A network analysis of global cephalopod trade
Andres Ospina-Alvarez1, Silvia de Juan2, Pablo Pita3,4
1Mediterranean Institute for Advanced Studies, IMEDEA (UIB-CSIC), C/Miquel Marques 21, CP 07190, Esporles, Balearic Islands, Spain. aospina.co@me.com.
Scientific Reports
|January 11, 2022
Summary
Global cephalopod trade is dominated by China, Spain, and Japan, with a key group of eight traders controlling Asian, European, and US markets. This analysis maps the complex network for sustainability.
Area of Science:
- Marine Biology
- Fisheries Science
- International Trade Analysis
Background:
- The global cephalopod trade is a significant economic and subsistence resource, yet lacks comprehensive research and international monitoring systems.
- Understanding the structure of this multi-billion dollar industry is crucial for sustainability and food security.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide the first global overview of legal cephalopod trade dynamics.
- To identify key players, trade routes, and network structures in the international cephalopod market.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of 20 years of UN COMTRADE database records for squid, cuttlefish, and octopus trade.
- Application of theoretical network analysis, including centrality measures, to map trade flows and identify key traders.
Main Results:
- China, Spain, and Japan were the leading countries in global cephalopod market movements between 2000 and 2019.
- Eleven distinct trader groups were identified, with a dominant cluster of eight traders controlling significant portions of Asian, European, and US markets.
Conclusions:
- The study maps the global cephalopod trade network, identifying major importers/exporters, hubs, and trade routes.
- This network knowledge is essential for developing sustainable, transparent, and food-secure international cephalopod trade practices.
