Premium collection · Caviar
Sturgeon Caviar Sourcing — CITES Permits, Labelling and Buyer Checks
Reviewed 2026-10-24
Short answer: Commercial caviar trade needs CITES documents: most sturgeon species are listed in Appendix II, and two species are in Appendix I with commercial trade generally prohibited. Every container must carry a universal CITES label identifying source and origin. Check permits before any offer.
Specification criteria
- Species identified by scientific name and CITES appendix.
- Source code (e.g. captive-bred or wild) and country of origin on the label.
- Universal CITES labelling on every primary container, including repackaged caviar.
- Product details: salting, pasteurisation, tin size and storage temperature.
Buyer fit
- Importers with CITES import capability
- Food-service and retail buyers with specialist cold chain
Commercial benefits
- High-value product where documentation is standardised by CITES
Risks to manage
- Trade in Appendix I species (Acipenser sturio, A. brevirostrum) is generally prohibited commercially.
- Missing or invalid permits lead to seizure.
- Mislabelled species or origin.
Limitations
- Personal-baggage exemptions (e.g. 125 g in Spain) do not apply to commercial shipments.
- QR codes on caviar labels were discussed by CITES in 2025 but are not a requirement.
Documents to request
- CITES export permit and, where required, import permit.
- Universal caviar label details for each container.
- Health certificate and establishment approval for the destination.
Regulatory notes
- CITES Appendix II for most sturgeon and paddlefish; Appendix I for two species.
- EU: caviar container labelling obligatory under Regulation (EC) 865/2006 as amended by 100/2008.
No price ranges are shown because none were sourced for this product. Requirements vary by product and destination; each party remains responsible for the rules that apply to it. FishMatch does not certify products or guarantee compliance.
Comparison
| Point | Complete offer | Incomplete offer |
|---|---|---|
| Species | Scientific name + CITES appendix | Trade name only |
| Permits | Export permit available | 'On request' |
| Labels | Universal CITES code per container | Missing |
Buyer questions
- Can any caviar be imported commercially?
- Only with valid CITES permits for listed species, correct universal labelling and the destination's food import approvals. Appendix I species are generally excluded from commercial trade.
Request through FishMatch
One free, reviewed RFQ for programmes from USD 250,000 per year or season. FishMatch coordinates all communication — buyers do not contact producers or suppliers directly. No availability, quality, certification or price guarantee.
Related pages
Sources
- Universal caviar labelling requirements — CITES
- SC78 Doc. 59: Labelling system for trade in caviar — CITES, 2025-02