Undercurrent, the global source of seafood prices, news and data, has launched monthly price assessments for Argentine wild-caught red shrimp (Pleoticus muelleri) in head-on, shell-on (HOSO) format, based on ex-cold-store transaction ranges in Spain.
The assessments cover L1 (10-20 pieces per kilogram) and L2 (20-30 pieces/kg) sizes, with L3 (30-40 pieces/kg) assessed when sufficient stock is available.
L4 (40-60 pieces/kg) is excluded because it accounts for less than 0.5% of the fishery and has limited price relevance.
Prices are quoted in euros per kilogram (€/kg) and reflect spot transactions between importers, traders, processors and wholesalers.
The new price assessments can be found here and are displayed below.
The launch follows UCN‘s industry consultation on the proposed assessments.
The new benchmark builds on historical price data compiled by the United Nations’ Food and Agriculture Organization.
Market significance
Argentine red shrimp is a premium wild-caught species with a distinct market position from farmed vannamei shrimp.
Its supply and pricing are driven by fishing seasons, environmental conditions and catch volumes, contributing to price volatility and making reliable market benchmarks valuable for importers, traders and processors.
Spain is a key European market for the species, which is widely consumed in retail and foodservice, particularly during the Christmas season.
China is also an important destination, with imports of Argentine red shrimp rising 10% from 2024 to 2025 to 19,170 metric tons.
The offshore fishery received Marine Stewardship Council certification in February 2026, as UCN reported, following certification of the inshore fishery in March 2025.
Publication schedule
The assessments are published on the third Thursday of each month.
Get in touch
UCN welcomes feedback on the methodology from market participants and pricing information from businesses active in the trade. Please contact [email protected].
UCN Team
