Product Code: ETC387044 | Publication Date: Aug 2022 | Updated Date: Apr 2025 | Product Type: Market Research Report | |
Publisher: 6Wresearch | Author: Summon Dutta | No. of Pages: 75 | No. of Figures: 35 | No. of Tables: 20 |
Bahrain Mackerel market currently, in 2023, has witnessed an HHI of 3657, Which has increased slightly as compared to the HHI of 1673 in 2017. The market is moving towards concentrated. Herfindahl index measures the competitiveness of exporting countries. The range lies from 0 to 10000, where a lower index number represents a larger number of players or exporting countries in the market while a large index number means fewer numbers of players or countries exporting in the market.
The mackerel market in Bahrain is robust, with mackerel being a popular and affordable seafood choice among consumers. Mostly imported in frozen form, mackerel is sold widely through supermarkets, fish markets, and wholesale distributors. It is appreciated for its rich flavor and nutritional content. This market serves both everyday household consumption and the HORECA (hotels, restaurants, catering) sector.
Mackerel is a staple in Bahraini cuisine and a key player in both fresh and frozen seafood categories. Its affordability, taste, and availability have made it a favorite among households. Local fishing and imports ensure year-round supply. The market is price-sensitive but showing signs of diversification in terms of packaging and product forms.
Bahrains mackerel market is mostly reliant on frozen imports, which creates supply chain vulnerabilities and cost pressures. Consumer preference leans toward fresh, locally caught fish, limiting the appeal of imported mackerel. Storage and transportation requirements for frozen mackerel raise the retail price and impact freshness perception. Marketing efforts for mackerel are minimal, and many consumers lack awareness of its nutritional benefits. Regulatory compliance related to food imports also adds complexity. As a result, mackerel remains underrepresented in mainstream Bahraini diets despite its affordability elsewhere.
The mackerel market in Bahrain is expanding as consumers increasingly seek affordable, nutritious, and omega-3-rich fish. Investors can look into importing frozen or canned mackerel, developing value-added products, and improving cold chain infrastructure for distribution. Mackerels growing popularity across both retail and foodservice sectors makes it a practical investment, particularly in ready-to-cook formats for modern urban consumers. Government efforts to boost domestic aquaculture also present future opportunities for local mackerel farming. The low price point and broad consumer base make this a stable and scalable seafood market for both local consumption and export.
In the Bahraini mackerel market, government policies are shaped by both dietary demand and the need for affordable seafood options. Mackerel is recognized in national food programs as a cost-effective source of omega-3 and protein, leading to relaxed tariffs on bulk imports. Government bodies such as the BFDA enforce cold storage standards and mandate documentation of catch origin, especially for frozen or canned mackerel. The Ministry of Industry has facilitated partnerships between local distributors and Asian or African exporters to ensure steady supply. In line with sustainability goals, awareness programs are being launched to encourage responsible consumption and reduce wastage in seafood distribution. Government investment in fish processing zones is also indirectly supporting mackerel repackaging and re-export initiatives.